Pat Cummins has claimed 309 wickets in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has declared that skipper Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming Ashes series.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a stress fracture in his back that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series set to start on November 21 in Perth.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the prospects of taking part.
"We know that the window is narrowing and there are permutations around that, not only the physical problem, but further aspects," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he will feature a key capacity. Hopefully it's the first Test. Otherwise, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals in the previous weeks after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
He has a history of spinal problems, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons causing him to miss multiple domestic campaigns in a short span.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the contest.
Bailey noted that there was no confirmation if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "pressing" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was excluded lately from the national team for their one-day international series against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and mentioned that he'll feature in the state-level matches, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to participate for the initial game as an dual-role player," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games regardless. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Ashes: Australia v England
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
