The Australian skipper has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chair of selectors the selector has stated that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches kicking off on November 21 in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about the prospects of taking part.
"We know that the clock is ticking and there are permutations around that, not only his injury, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a key capacity. With luck starting in Perth. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
The captain missed the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the contest.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from the national team for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs anyway. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
