The pace bowler has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector George Bailey has declared that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series set to start on 21 November in Perth.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of being involved.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and there are permutations at play, not just the back issue, but further aspects," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a major part. Ideally it's the first Test. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India last month after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the Ashes.
He mentioned that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games in any case. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for another day, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
