The Australian skipper has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian selection chief George Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series set to start on 21 November in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about the prospects of taking part.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and various factors at play, not only his injury, but further aspects," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a significant role. With luck starting in Perth. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand last month after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with flare-ups 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 contest.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from the national team for their limited-overs matches against India as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and mentioned that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the opening match as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games in any case. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for a short period, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
