Pat Cummins has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chair of selectors George Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's Ashes series.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest kicking off on 21 November in the WACA.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about the prospects of participating.
"It's clear that time is getting short and multiple considerations at play, not only the physical problem, but additional elements," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he will feature a significant role. Hopefully starting in Perth. If not, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India last month after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from three Australian summers in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
He mentioned that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but conceded it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against India as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and mentioned that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the opening match as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs regardless. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for another day, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
