The Australian skipper has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
The Australian selection chief Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on 21 November in the WACA.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the prospects of taking part.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations at play, not only the back issue, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a key capacity. Hopefully starting in Perth. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the series.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and stated that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the initial game as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the starting games regardless. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
