The pace bowler has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian selection chief the selector has stated that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches set to start on the 21st of November in the WACA.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the prospects of taking part.
"It's clear that time is getting short and there are permutations around that, not only his injury, but further aspects," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he will feature a significant role. Hopefully from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India recently after scans revealed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the contest.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from the national team for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and confirmed that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the first Test as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games anyway. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for a short period, we just made the decision to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
