The pace bowler has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
The Australian chair of selectors George Bailey has declared that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's Ashes series.
There were concerns that Cummins might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series set to start on November 21 in the WACA.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of being involved.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and various factors involved, not just the physical problem, but further aspects," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a significant role. Hopefully it's the first Test. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
The captain missed the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India last month after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of spinal problems, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from several home seasons in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and stated that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches regardless. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
