The pace bowler has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in the WACA.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about his chances of being involved.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and there are permutations around that, not only his injury, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he will feature a key capacity. Hopefully it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India last month after scans revealed a lower back issue.
He has a history of recurring issues, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of several home seasons in four years.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the contest.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the opener.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and stated that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the initial game as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games in any case. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for another day, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
