Pat Cummins has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
Australia's selection chief the selector has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest kicking off on 21 November in Perth.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about the likelihood of participating.
"We know that the clock is ticking and various factors at play, not only his injury, but additional elements," he commented.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he will feature a significant role. Ideally from the opening match. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
The captain missed the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of back injuries, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from several home seasons in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the contest.
He mentioned 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 regain fitness for the opener.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against India as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "small issue and mentioned that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the opening match as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches anyway. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
