The pace bowler has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has declared that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that Cummins might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest kicking off on November 21 in Western Australia.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about the likelihood of participating.
"We're aware that time is getting short and various factors at play, not only the back issue, but additional elements," the selector added.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he's going to play a major part. With luck it's the first Test. If not, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India recently after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of spinal problems, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of several home seasons in four years.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the series.
Bailey noted that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "getting tight" for him to be fit for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the opening match as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs in any case. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for a short period, we just made the decision to approach this more conservatively."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
