The pace bowler has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest kicking off on November 21 in Perth.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about his chances of being involved.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations at play, not just the physical problem, but additional elements," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he's going to play a key capacity. Hopefully it's the first Test. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the contest.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the first Test as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches regardless. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for a short period, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
