Pat Cummins is expected to be recalled for his first Test since 2011 following confirmation that Josh Hazlewood will miss the Ashes finale.
Hazlewood, who failed to demonstrate his trademark control in the third and fourth Ashes Tests, was unable to train on Tuesday due to sore shins.
Australian coach Darren Lehmann confirmed the following day that Hazlewood would miss the fifth Test at The Oval.
Lehmann noted Hazlewood was out due to fitness, not form.
"Josh has played six Tests since the West Indies tour and the last nine Tests for Australia, as well as playing an important part in the (World Cup)," he said.
"He has managed to get through this period without any major injury which is pleasing, though currently, he does have some niggling problems that we would like to manage.
"As such, he was not considered for selection for the fifth Test."
Hazlewood, who was not picked for the ODI series between Australia and England, will be assessed when he returns home.
"His niggles will be investigated further and he will work with our coaches, and our medical and fitness staff, to have him prepared for the next series he is selected to play in," Lehmann said.
It means Cummins or Peter Siddle will be recalled to the Test XI.
Cummins was named man of the match in his one and only Test, at Johannesburg in 2011.
Foot and back injuries have since stalled the 22-year-old's progress.
However, the right-armer has played two tour games since joining the squad when Ryan Harris retired.
Cummins starred for Australia in their last-start clash with Northamptonshire.
He bowled well on Saturday then struck an unbeaten 82 on Sunday after a woeful top-order collapse of 5-74.
"The body felt perfect - no niggle or anything," Cummins said on Sunday.
"I was speaking to the physio today and we were trying to work it out ... I've been bowling for two years straight and I think I've missed one week out of the two years.
"And I've had no niggles or anything, so I can't be any more ready if I get the call-up."
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