The pace bowler has taken 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian selection chief the selector has stated that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might miss the series due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and felt positive about his chances of participating.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and multiple considerations around that, not only his injury, but further aspects," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he's going to play a significant role. Hopefully it's the first Test. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
He has a history of spinal problems, with recurrences in multiple past seasons forcing him out of three Australian summers in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the contest.
Bailey noted that he did not know if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his recovery but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from the national team for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and mentioned that Green will play in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the first Test as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"He was only going to play the initial matches in any case. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, the choice was made to approach this more conservatively."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
