Pat Cummins has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chief selector the selector has confirmed that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series set to start on 21 November in the WACA.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about his chances of being involved.
"It's clear that time is getting short and multiple considerations around that, not only the physical problem, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he will feature a key capacity. With luck starting in Perth. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out 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 setbacks in multiple past seasons forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in four years.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to ensure his availability for the contest.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against India as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "slight concern and mentioned that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the opening match as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"He was only going to play the first two ODIs anyway. The way he swings 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