Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chief selector George Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on 21 November in Western Australia.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and felt positive about his chances of being involved.
"It's clear that time is getting short and there are permutations involved, not only the physical problem, but additional elements," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a significant role. Hopefully it's the first Test. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of recurring issues, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss three Australian summers in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the series.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player 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 mentioned that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the opening match as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs in any case. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
