The pace bowler has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector the selector has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series kicking off on the 21st of November in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the prospects of participating.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations at play, not only his injury, but further aspects," he commented.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a major part. Hopefully it's the first Test. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of back injuries, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the series.
He mentioned that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and confirmed that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the opening match as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches regardless. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for another day, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
