The pace bowler has taken 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian selection chief George Bailey has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming England-Australia contest.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series kicking off on the 21st of November in Perth.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of taking part.
"We know that time is getting short and multiple considerations involved, not only the physical problem, but additional elements," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a major part. With luck it's the first Test. If not, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
He has a history of back injuries, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of several home seasons in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to make the squad for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and stated that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games anyway. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for a short period, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
