Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
The Australian chair of selectors George Bailey has declared that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches set to start on November 21 in Western Australia.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the prospects of being involved.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and various factors involved, aside from the physical problem, but additional elements," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he's going to play a key capacity. Hopefully starting in Perth. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India recently after scans revealed a lower back issue.
He has a history of spinal problems, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss several home seasons in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the series.
The selector indicated that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and mentioned that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games in any case. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for another day, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
