The pace bowler has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
Australia's chief selector George Bailey has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that Cummins might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches set to start on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of being involved.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations involved, not only his injury, but additional elements," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he will feature a key capacity. With luck starting in Perth. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Injury History
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after scans revealed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons forcing him out of several home seasons in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to make the squad for the contest.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Backup Options
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and mentioned that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the initial game as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs regardless. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
