The pace bowler has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chief selector the selector has stated that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's Ashes series.
There were concerns that Cummins might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on November 21 in Perth.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about the prospects of taking part.
"We're aware that time is getting short and there are permutations around that, not only his injury, but further aspects," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a major part. Ideally starting in Perth. If not, we'll adjust."
Previous Setbacks
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand last month after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of several home seasons in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the contest.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but conceded it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Backup Options
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their ODI contests against India as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the first Test as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches regardless. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for 24 more hours, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
