Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chief selector George Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the Test matches set to start on the 21st of November in the WACA.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about his chances of taking part.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and various factors involved, not only his injury, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a major part. With luck starting in Perth. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India recently after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of back injuries, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss several home seasons in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the series.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but admitted it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "small issue and confirmed that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"He was only going to play the initial matches regardless. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, we opted to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
