The pace bowler has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chair of selectors George Bailey has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about his chances of taking part.
"We know that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations involved, aside from the back issue, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a significant role. Ideally starting in Perth. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of three Australian summers in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the contest.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against India as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," 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 a short period, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
