The pace bowler has secured 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chair of selectors the selector has declared that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series kicking off on 21 November in the WACA.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about his chances of participating.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations at play, not just his injury, but additional elements," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he's going to play a significant role. Ideally starting in Perth. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India last month after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from several home seasons in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the contest.
Bailey noted that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches in any case. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, we opted to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
