The Australian skipper has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
The Australian chief selector George Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series set to start on November 21 in the WACA.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about his chances of taking part.
"We're aware that time is getting short and multiple considerations at play, not just the back issue, but further aspects," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a significant role. With luck it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Previous Setbacks
The captain missed the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the contest.
Bailey noted that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the first Test as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches in any case. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
