Pat Cummins has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has stated that pace spearhead Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series kicking off on 21 November in Perth.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about his chances of taking part.
"We're aware that time is getting short and various factors at play, not just his injury, but further aspects," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a key capacity. Ideally it's the first Test. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Previous Setbacks
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of back injuries, with setbacks in multiple past seasons forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the series.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the initial game as an dual-role player," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs anyway. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026