Pat Cummins has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector George Bailey has stated that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on November 21 in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about his chances of participating.
"We know that time is getting short and there are permutations around that, not only the back issue, but further aspects," he commented.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he's going to play a significant role. With luck it's the first Test. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand recently after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from three Australian summers in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to make the squad for the series.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
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 limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and mentioned that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the initial game as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the starting games regardless. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for another day, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
