The pace bowler has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest kicking off on 21 November in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the likelihood of participating.
"We know that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations around that, aside from his injury, but further aspects," the selector added.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he will feature a significant role. Hopefully from the opening match. If not, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after scans revealed a lower back issue.
He has a history of spinal problems, with recurrences in multiple past seasons forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts 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 conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against India as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the initial game as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs regardless. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for a short period, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
