The pace bowler has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the Test matches kicking off on the 21st of November in Perth.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of being involved.
"We know that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations at play, aside from his injury, but additional elements," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he will feature a major part. With luck starting in Perth. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Previous Setbacks
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India recently after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of back injuries, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss several home seasons in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to make the squad for the series.
He mentioned that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but conceded it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "slight concern and mentioned that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the initial matches in any case. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
