The Australian skipper has taken over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an impressive average.
The Australian chief selector the selector has stated that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in the upcoming England-Australia contest.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that had not yet healed.
Initial reports from team management suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series kicking off on November 21 in Perth.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of being involved.
"It's clear that the clock is ticking and various factors involved, not just his injury, but additional elements," he commented.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he will feature a significant role. With luck starting in Perth. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
He was sidelined Australia's limited-overs series against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after scans revealed a lower back issue.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with recurrences in several earlier campaigns leading to absences from three Australian summers in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be proactive in his approach in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the contest.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "becoming urgent" for him to regain fitness for the opener.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will take over the captaincy.
Versatile player Green was excluded lately from the national team for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "small issue and mentioned that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to resume bowling."
"We put so much time has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the first Test as an all-rounder," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games regardless. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for 24 more hours, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
