The Australian skipper has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief the selector has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in Perth.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about the prospects of taking part.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and there are permutations involved, not only the physical problem, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a major part. Hopefully starting in Perth. If not, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from three Australian summers in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to make the squad for the Ashes.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from the national team for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches anyway. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for a short period, we just made the decision to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
