The pace bowler has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in the upcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on 21 November in Perth.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and felt positive about the likelihood of taking part.
"It's clear that time is getting short and there are permutations around that, aside from the back issue, but additional elements," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a major part. Hopefully from the opening match. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
The captain missed the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss several home seasons in a short span.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the series.
The selector indicated that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, former captain Steve Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their one-day international series against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and mentioned that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs regardless. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for another day, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
