The Australian skipper has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chief selector George Bailey has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's England-Australia contest.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on November 21 in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the likelihood of taking part.
"It's clear that time is getting short and multiple considerations around that, not just the back issue, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he's going to play a significant role. With luck from the opening match. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of back injuries, with setbacks in multiple past seasons leading to absences from several home seasons in a short span.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the series.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the opening match as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs regardless. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, we opted to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
