The pace bowler has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's England-Australia contest.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the prospects of participating.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and various factors involved, aside from the physical problem, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a significant role. Ideally from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India last month after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the series.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches in any case. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
