Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector George Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on November 21 in Perth.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about his chances of taking part.
"We're aware that time is getting short and there are permutations at play, aside from the physical problem, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he's going to play a key capacity. Hopefully it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India recently after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from three Australian summers in four years.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the contest.
He mentioned that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Backup Options
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will take over the captaincy.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and stated that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the opening match as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches regardless. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
