The Australian skipper has claimed 309 wickets in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has declared that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming Ashes series.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on 21 November in the WACA.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about the likelihood 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," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he will feature a significant role. With luck from the opening match. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from three Australian summers in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts 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 comeback but conceded it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Backup Options
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against India as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to resume bowling."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs anyway. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
