The Australian skipper has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's selection chief Bailey has declared that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's historic rivalry.
There were concerns that Cummins might be unavailable due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest kicking off on November 21 in Perth.
Bailey expressed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the prospects of being involved.
"We're aware that time is getting short and various factors at play, not only the physical problem, but further aspects," he commented.
"We're encouraged. There's strong faith that he will feature a major part. With luck from the opening match. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
The captain missed the white-ball matches against New Zealand and India last month after scans revealed a lower back issue.
He has a history of recurring issues, with setbacks in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 causing him to miss several home seasons in a short span.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his recovery plan to secure his spot for the Ashes.
Bailey noted that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his rehabilitation but conceded it was "becoming urgent" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, former captain Steve Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from the ODI lineup for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that he'll feature in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "in a good place to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the first Test as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the starting games regardless. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, should it hinder progress for a short period, we opted to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
Australia vs England: The Ashes
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026