The Australian skipper has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chief selector the selector has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding whether he would play, with the Test matches set to start on November 21 in Western Australia.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about his chances of taking part.
"We're aware that time is getting short and there are permutations involved, not only his injury, but additional elements," the selector added.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a significant role. With luck from the opening match. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand last month after scans revealed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of back injuries, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons causing him to miss three Australian summers in four years.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the contest.
He mentioned that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from Australia's squad 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 he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches anyway. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for another day, we opted to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
