The pace bowler has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
The Australian selection chief Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's historic rivalry.
There were concerns that Cummins might miss the series due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches set to start on November 21 in the WACA.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the likelihood of being involved.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and there are permutations at play, not just the physical problem, but other factors as well," he commented.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a major part. Ideally it's the first Test. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India last month after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of recurring issues, with setbacks in multiple past seasons forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the contest.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the first Test as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the initial matches anyway. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for another day, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
