The Australian skipper has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series set to start on the 21st of November in Perth.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about his chances of taking part.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and there are permutations at play, not just the back issue, but additional elements," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he's going to play a significant role. With luck starting in Perth. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of recurring issues, with setbacks in multiple past seasons leading to absences from three Australian summers in four years.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the series.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and mentioned that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the first Test as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the starting games in any case. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for another day, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
