The pace bowler has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chair of selectors the selector has declared that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming England-Australia contest.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on 21 November in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about the likelihood of taking part.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and various factors around that, aside from the physical problem, but further aspects," he commented.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a major part. With luck it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Injury History
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with setbacks in multiple past seasons forcing him out of several home seasons in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and confirmed that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches anyway. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for another day, we just made the decision to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
