The Australian skipper has secured 309 wickets in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chair of selectors George Bailey has declared that pace spearhead Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in Western Australia.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about the likelihood of participating.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and there are permutations involved, not just the physical problem, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he will feature a significant role. Ideally from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of back injuries, with flare-ups in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of three Australian summers in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the series.
Bailey noted that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and stated that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the initial game as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the starting games anyway. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
