The pace bowler has claimed 309 wickets in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
Australia's selection chief the selector has declared that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on 21 November in Perth.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about his chances of taking part.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations around that, not only the physical problem, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a significant role. Hopefully from the opening match. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
The captain missed the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from three Australian summers in a short span.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but conceded it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and confirmed that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the initial matches anyway. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
