The Australian skipper has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chair of selectors George Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest set to start on 21 November in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of taking part.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and various factors around that, not just the physical problem, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he's going to play a key capacity. With luck it's the first Test. If not, we'll reassess."
Injury History
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand last month after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
He has a history of spinal problems, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of several home seasons in a short span.
He emphasized he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the contest.
He mentioned that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the opener.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against India as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches in any case. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
