The pace bowler has secured 309 wickets in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
Australia's selection chief George Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest set to start on November 21 in the WACA.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about his chances of taking part.
"It's clear that time is getting short and multiple considerations at play, not just his injury, but additional elements," he commented.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he will feature a major part. Ideally it's the first Test. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand last month after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
He has a history of recurring issues, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss three Australian summers in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the series.
The selector indicated that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the initial game as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs in any case. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
