The pace bowler has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
The Australian chair of selectors George Bailey has declared that skipper Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest kicking off on 21 November in Perth.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about his chances of taking part.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations involved, aside from the back issue, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he will feature a major part. Ideally it's the first Test. If not, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand recently after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss several home seasons in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the contest.
He mentioned that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit 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 Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against India as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the first Test as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches regardless. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
