The Australian skipper has secured over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
The Australian selection chief the selector has declared that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series set to start on 21 November in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about his chances of being involved.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and there are permutations at play, not just his injury, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a key capacity. Hopefully from the opening match. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Injury History
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand last month after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of three Australian summers in a short span.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the series.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but conceded it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches in any case. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for a short period, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
