The Australian skipper has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector the selector has stated that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches kicking off on the 21st of November in Perth.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of participating.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations around that, not just the physical problem, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he's going to play a key capacity. Ideally from the opening match. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India last month after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of back injuries, with setbacks in multiple past seasons forcing him out of three Australian summers in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the contest.
He mentioned that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but admitted it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the opener.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against India as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and mentioned that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the initial game as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games regardless. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for another day, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
