The pace bowler has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
The Australian chief selector Bailey has stated that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest kicking off on the 21st of November in Perth.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the prospects of participating.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and various factors involved, aside from the physical problem, but other factors as well," he commented.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he will feature a major part. Hopefully it's the first Test. If not, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after medical tests showed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of back injuries, with recurrences 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 rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the contest.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from the national team for their limited-overs matches against India as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and mentioned that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the opening match as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs in any case. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for a short period, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
