The pace bowler has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
The Australian selection chief Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest set to start on 21 November in the WACA.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about his chances of being involved.
"It's clear that time is getting short and multiple considerations around that, not only the back issue, but further aspects," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he will feature a significant role. Hopefully from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand last month after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with setbacks in multiple past seasons causing him to miss three Australian summers in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the contest.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
He labeled it as a "slight concern and stated that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games anyway. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for another day, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Fixture Details
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
