The Australian skipper has taken 309 wickets in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
Australia's selection chief George Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on November 21 in Perth.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of being involved.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and various factors involved, aside from his injury, but further aspects," the selector added.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he's going to play a major part. With luck starting in Perth. If not, we'll reassess."
Injury History
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from three Australian summers in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the series.
Bailey noted that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "small issue and stated that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches regardless. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for another day, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
