The Australian skipper has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series set to start on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about his chances of participating.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and various factors around that, not just the back issue, but additional elements," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a major part. Hopefully it's the first Test. If not, we'll adjust."
Injury History
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand recently after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
The selector indicated 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 be fit for the first Test.
Backup Options
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "slight concern and confirmed that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the opening match as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs regardless. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, we opted to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
