The pace bowler has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chief selector George Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on November 21 in the WACA.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of being involved.
"We're aware that time is getting short and there are permutations around that, not only the physical problem, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a significant role. Hopefully it's the first Test. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India recently after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to make the squad for the contest.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but admitted it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from the national team for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and confirmed that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the initial matches regardless. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Fixture Details
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
