The pace bowler has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chief selector the selector has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that Cummins might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on 21 November in Perth.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and remained hopeful about the likelihood of taking part.
"It's clear that time is getting short and various factors around that, aside from his injury, but additional elements," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a major part. With luck from the opening match. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Injury History
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after medical tests showed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of back injuries, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of three Australian summers in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against India as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
He labeled it as a "small issue and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the opening match as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs regardless. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for another day, we just made the decision to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
