Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chair of selectors George Bailey has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's Ashes series.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series set to start on 21 November in the WACA.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about his chances of being involved.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and various factors around that, not just his injury, but additional elements," he commented.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a major part. With luck starting in Perth. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India recently after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
He has a history of spinal problems, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"He was only going to play the starting games anyway. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for another day, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
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The Historic Rivalry
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