The pace bowler has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chair of selectors the selector has confirmed that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on November 21 in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about his chances of being involved.
"It's clear that time is getting short and there are permutations involved, not only his injury, but additional elements," he commented.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a key capacity. Ideally from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Injury History
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand recently after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of recurring issues, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of three Australian summers in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the series.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and confirmed that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the opening match as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs anyway. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
