The Australian skipper has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
Australia's chief selector George Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that Cummins might be unavailable 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 kicking off on 21 November in Perth.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the prospects of participating.
"We know that time is getting short and multiple considerations involved, not just the back issue, but additional elements," he commented.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a significant role. With luck from the opening match. If not, we'll adjust."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand last month after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the series.
He mentioned that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against India as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "small issue and confirmed that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the starting games anyway. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for a short period, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
