The Australian skipper has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chief selector Bailey has stated that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
There were concerns that Cummins might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches kicking off on 21 November in Perth.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the prospects of taking part.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and various factors around that, not just his injury, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a major part. With luck from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India recently after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with recurrences in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of three Australian summers in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "slight concern and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"He was only going to play the starting games regardless. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for a short period, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
