The Australian skipper has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chief selector George Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series set to start on 21 November in Perth.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the likelihood of participating.
"We know that the window is narrowing and various factors around that, aside from the back issue, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he's going to play a major part. Ideally it's the first Test. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
The bowler mentioned 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 acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from the national team for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "slight concern and stated that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs anyway. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
