The Australian skipper has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
The Australian chief selector the selector has declared that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that Cummins might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches set to start on 21 November in Perth.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about the prospects of taking part.
"We know that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations at play, not just the physical problem, but further aspects," he commented.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a key capacity. Ideally it's the first Test. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India recently after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of recurring issues, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from several home seasons in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the contest.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
He labeled it as a "small issue and mentioned that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the opening match as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"He was only going to play the starting games anyway. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, we opted to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
