The pace bowler has secured 309 Test scalps in 71 appearances with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector the selector has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on the 21st of November in Perth.
The selector shared that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about his chances of participating.
"We know that the clock is ticking and various factors around that, not only his injury, but further aspects," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a key capacity. Hopefully it's the first Test. If not, we'll reassess."
Past Concerns
The captain missed Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
He has a history of back injuries, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons forcing him out of several home seasons in a limited period.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to make the squad for the contest.
He mentioned that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from the national team for their one-day international series against India as a precautionary measure because of an abdominal issue.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and mentioned that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches regardless. How he handles the bat in limited-overs, even if it just sets him back for another day, we opted to adopt a safer strategy."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
