The Australian skipper has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chief selector the selector has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on November 21 in the WACA.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about the prospects of participating.
"We know that the clock is ticking and there are permutations around that, aside from the back issue, but other factors as well," he commented.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he will feature a significant role. Hopefully from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Previous Setbacks
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India recently after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of spinal problems, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from three Australian summers in a short span.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from the national team for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the initial matches regardless. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for a short period, we opted to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
