The pace bowler has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
The Australian selection chief George Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series kicking off on November 21 in Perth.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about the prospects of participating.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and there are permutations at play, not just the physical problem, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he's going to play a major part. Hopefully from the opening match. If not, we'll adjust."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India last month after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of recurring issues, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from the national team for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and stated that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the opening match as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games regardless. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for another day, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
