The Australian skipper has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector George Bailey has declared that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's England-Australia contest.
There were concerns that Cummins might miss the series due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest set to start on November 21 in the WACA.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the likelihood of participating.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and there are permutations around that, aside from the physical problem, but additional elements," he commented.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he will feature a major part. Ideally from the opening match. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of three Australian summers in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the contest.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Backup Options
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and confirmed that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games regardless. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress 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
