The Australian skipper has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chief selector George Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that Cummins might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series kicking off on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about his chances of taking part.
"It's clear that time is getting short and there are permutations involved, not just the back issue, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a major part. Ideally from the opening match. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India recently after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
He has a history of spinal problems, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from several home seasons in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to make the squad for the series.
Bailey noted that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
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 one-day international series against the Asian giants as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the opening match as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs in any case. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
