The Australian skipper has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest set to start on November 21 in Western Australia.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the prospects of being involved.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations at play, aside from the physical problem, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he will feature a major part. Ideally from the opening match. If not, we'll reassess."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India last month after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of several home seasons in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to make the squad for the contest.
The selector indicated that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Backup Options
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their limited-overs matches against India as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and stated that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs anyway. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, we opted to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
