The pace bowler has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian selection chief Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the Test matches set to start on 21 November in the WACA.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about his chances of participating.
"We know that the clock is ticking and there are permutations at play, aside from the physical problem, but further aspects," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he's going to play a key capacity. With luck it's the first Test. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with recurrences in multiple past seasons forcing him out of several home seasons in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the series.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the opener.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that Green will play 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 take part for the initial game as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the starting games anyway. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
