The Australian skipper has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian selection chief George Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest set to start on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about his chances of taking part.
"We know that the clock is ticking and various factors around that, not only the physical problem, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a key capacity. Hopefully it's the first Test. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand last month after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss three Australian summers in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but admitted it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the first Test as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the initial matches anyway. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for another day, we just made the decision to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
