The Australian skipper has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on 21 November in Western Australia.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about the prospects of taking part.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and there are permutations around that, not just the back issue, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a key capacity. Hopefully it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Previous Setbacks
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the Ashes.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against India as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches regardless. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
