The Australian skipper has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that Cummins might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Previous updates from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on November 21 in Perth.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the prospects of being involved.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations involved, not only the physical problem, but further aspects," he commented.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a significant role. Hopefully from the opening match. If not, we'll reassess."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from several home seasons in four years.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach 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 admitted it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Backup Options
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will take over the captaincy.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against India as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized 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."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the initial game as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games regardless. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for a short period, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Fixture Details
The Historic Rivalry
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
