The Australian skipper has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
Australia's chair of selectors George Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest kicking off on November 21 in the WACA.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about his chances of being involved.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and there are permutations at play, not just his injury, but other factors as well," he commented.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a key capacity. Hopefully from the opening match. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India last month after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
There is a track record of back injuries, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of three Australian summers in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process 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 comeback but admitted it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches regardless. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
