The pace bowler has claimed 309 wickets in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
Australia's selection chief George Bailey has declared that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on November 21 in the WACA.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the prospects of taking part.
"We know that the clock is ticking and various factors around that, not only the back issue, but additional elements," he commented.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a significant role. Hopefully from the opening match. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India recently after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from several home seasons in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but admitted it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Backup Options
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and confirmed that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the initial game as an all-rounder," he elaborated.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs anyway. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
