The Australian skipper has claimed 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chair of selectors the selector has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the Test matches set to start on November 21 in the WACA.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about his chances of participating.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations involved, not just the back issue, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he's going to play a key capacity. Hopefully starting in Perth. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
There is a track record of back injuries, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the series.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against India as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and stated that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the opening match as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches regardless. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for another day, we opted to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
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