The Australian skipper has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief George Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that Cummins might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches kicking off on 21 November in Western Australia.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and felt positive about his chances of participating.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations around that, not just his injury, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he will feature a significant role. Ideally from the opening match. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
There is a track record of back injuries, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the contest.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their one-day international series against India as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the opening match as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs regardless. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
