The Australian skipper has secured 309 wickets in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
Australia's chief selector George Bailey has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on 21 November in Perth.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of participating.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and various factors around that, aside from the physical problem, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a key capacity. With luck starting in Perth. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss several home seasons in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to make the squad for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and stated that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the initial game as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches anyway. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
