The Australian skipper has secured 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has stated that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the Test matches kicking off on 21 November in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that Cummins is "building up" and felt positive about his chances of being involved.
"We're aware that the window is narrowing and multiple considerations involved, aside from his injury, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. [We are] really confident that he's going to play a significant role. With luck it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Injury History
The captain missed the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after medical tests showed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the series.
Bailey noted that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the opener.
Backup Options
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and confirmed that he's scheduled to appear in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to be available for the opening match as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches anyway. How he handles the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for another day, we just made the decision to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
Australia vs England: The Ashes
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
