The pace bowler has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches set to start on November 21 in Perth.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about his chances of taking part.
"It's clear that time is getting short and there are permutations at play, not only the physical problem, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a key capacity. Hopefully it's the first Test. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with setbacks in multiple past seasons forcing him out of several home seasons in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to make the squad for the contest.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the opening match as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs regardless. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
