The pace bowler has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's England-Australia contest.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on November 21 in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the prospects of taking part.
"We're aware that time is getting short and multiple considerations around that, not just the back issue, but additional elements," he commented.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a significant role. With luck from the opening match. If not, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand last month after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with setbacks in multiple past seasons causing him to miss several home seasons in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the contest.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the national team for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "small issue and mentioned that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the opening match as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches anyway. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for another day, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
