The pace bowler has claimed 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chair of selectors George Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches kicking off on 21 November in the WACA.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the likelihood of being involved.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations at play, aside from his injury, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he will feature a major part. With luck from the opening match. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand recently after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of several home seasons in a short span.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to make the squad for the series.
He mentioned 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 be fit for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs regardless. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for another day, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
