Pat Cummins has secured 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has confirmed that skipper Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on November 21 in the WACA.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about his chances of participating.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and there are permutations involved, aside from the back issue, but other factors as well," he commented.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a significant role. Hopefully starting in Perth. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of spinal problems, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from three Australian summers in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be bold in recovery efforts in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the contest.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from the national team for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the starting games anyway. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for another day, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
