Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chief selector George Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's Ashes series.
There were concerns that Cummins might miss the series due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
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 Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about his chances of being involved.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations involved, not only his injury, but further aspects," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a significant role. Ideally from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the series.
He mentioned that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the opener.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against India as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the starting games in any case. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
