The Australian skipper has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian selection chief Bailey has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on 21 November in Perth.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about the prospects of participating.
"It's clear that time is getting short and various factors at play, not only the back issue, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a significant role. Ideally from the opening match. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand recently after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of recurring issues, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against India as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the initial game as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs in any case. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, if it causes any delay for a short period, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
