The Australian skipper has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has stated that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's historic rivalry.
There were concerns that Cummins might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series kicking off on November 21 in Perth.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about his chances of participating.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations at play, aside from his injury, but further aspects," he commented.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a major part. Ideally from the opening match. If not, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from three Australian summers in four years.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the series.
He mentioned that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against India as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
He labeled it as a "small issue and confirmed that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the initial game as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs regardless. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
