The Australian skipper has claimed 309 wickets in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that Cummins might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series set to start on November 21 in Perth.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and felt positive about his chances of taking part.
"We know that time is getting short and multiple considerations at play, not only the back issue, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a key capacity. Ideally starting in Perth. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of back injuries, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the series.
The selector indicated that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the opener.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against India as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and stated that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the initial game as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs anyway. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
