The pace bowler has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
Australia's selection chief George Bailey has declared that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that Cummins might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest kicking off on November 21 in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the prospects of being involved.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and various factors around that, aside from the physical problem, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he's going to play a significant role. Ideally it's the first Test. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with setbacks in multiple past seasons forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the contest.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and mentioned that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the opening match as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games in any case. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for another day, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
