The Australian skipper has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chair of selectors George Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series set to start on November 21 in Perth.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the likelihood of participating.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and various factors involved, not only the back issue, but further aspects," he commented.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he's going to play a major part. With luck starting in Perth. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss several home seasons in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the series.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games anyway. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for another day, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
