The pace bowler has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has declared that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series kicking off on November 21 in Perth.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and felt positive about the likelihood of taking part.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and various factors around that, aside from the back issue, but further aspects," he commented.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a major part. Ideally from the opening match. If not, we'll adjust."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with recurrences in multiple past seasons causing him to miss several home seasons in four years.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the contest.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Backup Options
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from the national team for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the initial game as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs regardless. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, we opted to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
