The Australian skipper has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
Australia's selection chief George Bailey has stated that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might miss the series due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series kicking off on November 21 in Western Australia.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about his chances of participating.
"It's clear that time is getting short and various factors at play, not only his injury, but additional elements," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a major part. Ideally from the opening match. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out 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 back injuries, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the series.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green 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 "slight concern and mentioned that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the opening match as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs in any case. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back 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
