The pace bowler has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chair of selectors George Bailey has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming England-Australia contest.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest kicking off on 21 November in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about his chances of participating.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and various factors at play, not only the physical problem, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he will feature a key capacity. Hopefully from the opening match. If not, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of back injuries, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss several home seasons in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the contest.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their ODI contests against India as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and confirmed that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, 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 first Test as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games in any case. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for another day, we opted to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
