The Australian skipper has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
Australia's selection chief George Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's Ashes series.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the Test matches kicking off on November 21 in Western Australia.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of taking part.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and various factors at play, aside from the back issue, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a significant role. Ideally it's the first Test. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the contest.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the opener.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and mentioned that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned 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," he elaborated.
"He was only going to play the initial matches regardless. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for a short period, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
