The Australian skipper has secured 309 wickets in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest set to start on November 21 in Perth.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about the likelihood of participating.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations around that, not only the physical problem, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a significant role. With luck starting in Perth. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India last month after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of spinal problems, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss several home seasons in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the contest.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and stated that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs regardless. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for another day, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
