The Australian skipper has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chair of selectors the selector has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on November 21 in the WACA.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the prospects of taking part.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and various factors involved, aside from the physical problem, but additional elements," he commented.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a major part. Ideally it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Previous Setbacks
The captain missed the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of back injuries, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of 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.
He mentioned that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches regardless. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, we opted to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
