The pace bowler has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has declared that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that Cummins might miss the series due to a stress fracture in his back that was still troubling him.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on November 21 in the WACA.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about the likelihood of participating.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and there are permutations involved, not only the back issue, but other factors as well," he commented.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he will feature a major part. Hopefully from the opening match. Should that not happen, we'll adjust."
Injury History
He was sidelined the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from three Australian summers in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to make the squad for the series.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "pressing" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against India as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and stated that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the initial game as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs regardless. The way he swings the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for another day, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
