The pace bowler has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
Australia's chief selector the selector has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest kicking off on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and felt positive about his chances of taking part.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and there are permutations involved, not only the physical problem, but further aspects," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he will feature a significant role. With luck starting in Perth. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with setbacks in multiple past seasons forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the series.
Bailey noted that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against India as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the first Test as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"He was only going to play the starting games anyway. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for another day, we opted to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
