The pace bowler has taken 309 wickets in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
Australia's selection chief George Bailey has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series set to start on November 21 in Western Australia.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about the likelihood of participating.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and various factors around that, aside from the physical problem, but further aspects," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he's going to play a significant role. Hopefully from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
The captain missed the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand recently after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss three Australian summers in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, 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 batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games in any case. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
