Pat Cummins has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
Australia's chair of selectors the selector has confirmed that pace spearhead Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no final decision 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 the prospects of taking part.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations involved, aside from the physical problem, but further aspects," the selector added.
"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
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after scans revealed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
He emphasized he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but conceded it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and stated that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches anyway. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for another day, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
