The Australian skipper has claimed 309 wickets in 71 appearances with an impressive average.
Australia's chair of selectors Bailey has stated that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the forthcoming Ashes series.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications 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 was "optimistic" about the likelihood of being involved.
"We know that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations involved, not only the back issue, but further aspects," he commented.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a significant role. Hopefully starting in Perth. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Injury History
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of back injuries, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons forcing him out of three Australian summers in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the contest.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the opener.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and stated that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the opening match as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches regardless. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, if it causes any delay for another day, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
