The pace bowler has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
Australia's chair of selectors the selector has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on November 21 in Perth.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about his chances of being involved.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and there are permutations around that, not only the back issue, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he will feature a key capacity. Hopefully starting in Perth. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the contest.
He mentioned that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but admitted it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and stated that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games regardless. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for another day, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
