The pace bowler has secured 309 wickets in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
Australia's selection chief George Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest kicking off on 21 November in Perth.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the prospects of participating.
"We're aware that time is getting short and there are permutations involved, not just the physical problem, but further aspects," he commented.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he's going to play a significant role. Hopefully starting in Perth. If not, we'll reassess."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
He has a history of back injuries, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but conceded it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and stated that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the opening match as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs regardless. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
