The Australian skipper has taken 309 wickets in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on 21 November in Perth.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about his chances of participating.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and various factors at play, not just his injury, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a key capacity. Ideally starting in Perth. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, 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 recovery plan to ensure his availability for the Ashes.
He mentioned that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and confirmed that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to be available for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches anyway. How he handles 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."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
