The pace bowler has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian selection chief Bailey has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on 21 November in Perth.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about the prospects of participating.
"It's clear that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations around that, not only the back issue, but other factors as well," Bailey remarked.
"The outlook is good. There's strong faith that he'll participate in a key capacity. Ideally starting in Perth. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Past Concerns
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after scans revealed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of spinal problems, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 leading to absences from several home seasons in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the series.
He mentioned that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
If he's unavailable, former captain Steve Smith will assume leadership.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants 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 Sheffield Shield, so will be "well-prepared to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the first Test as an dual-role player," he elaborated.
"He was only going to play the initial matches regardless. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for another day, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
