The pace bowler has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in Perth.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about his chances of participating.
"We know that time is getting short and various factors around that, not only his injury, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he will feature a major part. Hopefully it's the first Test. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India last month after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with setbacks in multiple past seasons forcing him out of several home seasons in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the series.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from the national team for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and confirmed that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the opening match as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games regardless. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
