The pace bowler has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector George Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on November 21 in the WACA.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the prospects of taking part.
"We know that time is getting short and multiple considerations involved, not only the physical problem, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a key capacity. Ideally it's the first Test. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
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 multiple past seasons leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
He emphasized he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the Ashes.
He mentioned that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against India as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the opening match as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games regardless. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for a short period, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
