The pace bowler has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
Australia's chief selector the selector has stated that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the veteran bowler might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on the 21st of November in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about his chances of being involved.
"We know that time is getting short and there are permutations involved, aside from his injury, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he will feature a significant role. With luck from the opening match. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons causing him to miss several home seasons in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the series.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the opener.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will take over the captaincy.
Versatile player Green was recently pulled out from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of discomfort in his torso.
The selector characterized it as a "minor" injury and mentioned that he's scheduled to appear in the Sheffield Shield, 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 take part for the opening match as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games anyway. His aggressive style the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for another day, we opted to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
