The Australian skipper has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chief selector Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on November 21 in the WACA.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the likelihood of taking part.
"We're aware that time is getting short and various factors involved, aside from his injury, but further aspects," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a major part. Ideally it's the first Test. If not, we'll adjust."
Previous Setbacks
The captain missed the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after scans revealed a lower back issue.
He has a history of recurring issues, with setbacks in multiple past seasons causing him to miss three Australian summers in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the series.
He mentioned that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the opening match as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games anyway. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for a short period, we opted to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Historic Rivalry
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
