The pace bowler has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chief selector Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Previous updates from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on November 21 in the WACA.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and felt positive about his chances of participating.
"We know that the clock is ticking and there are permutations involved, aside from his injury, but further aspects," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a major part. With luck starting in Perth. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India recently after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons leading to absences from several home seasons in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Backup Options
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against India as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and mentioned that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the opening match as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games anyway. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for another day, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
