The Australian skipper has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has declared that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on 21 November in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the prospects of taking part.
"We know that time is getting short and multiple considerations involved, aside from the back issue, but additional elements," the selector added.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a significant role. Ideally from the opening match. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India last month after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the Ashes.
The selector indicated that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and stated that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches regardless. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for a short period, we opted to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
