The pace bowler has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chair of selectors the selector has stated that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Previous updates from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches kicking off on 21 November in Perth.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about his chances of participating.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and various factors at play, aside from the back issue, but further aspects," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he's going to play a significant role. With luck it's the first Test. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India last month after scans revealed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from three Australian summers in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the Ashes.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Backup Options
Should Cummins not be fit, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was withdrawn recently from the national team for their ODI contests against India as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the state-level matches, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games regardless. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
