The pace bowler has secured 309 wickets in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
Australia's selection chief the selector has stated that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on November 21 in the WACA.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and felt positive about the likelihood of taking part.
"We're aware that time is getting short and there are permutations around that, aside from his injury, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he will feature a major part. With luck starting in Perth. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand last month after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
He has a history of recurring issues, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss several home seasons in four years.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the contest.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the opener.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of discomfort in his torso.
He labeled it as a "slight concern and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games anyway. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for a short period, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
