The pace bowler has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
Australia's chair of selectors George Bailey has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series kicking off on 21 November in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about the likelihood of taking part.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and various factors around that, not only the back issue, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he's going to play a significant role. With luck from the opening match. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of spinal problems, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of several home seasons in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the series.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and stated that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games anyway. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for another day, we opted to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
