The Australian skipper has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on the 21st of November in Perth.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about his chances of taking part.
"We know that time is getting short and there are permutations at play, not only the back issue, but further aspects," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he will feature a significant role. With luck it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
The captain missed the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
There is a track record of back injuries, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss three Australian summers in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the series.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against India as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and mentioned that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the initial game as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games anyway. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
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The Historic Rivalry
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