The pace bowler has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an impressive average.
The Australian selection chief Bailey has declared that captain Pat Cummins will have a crucial role in this winter's historic rivalry.
Speculation had been growing that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that was still troubling him.
Previous updates from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the five-Test series kicking off on November 21 in the WACA.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and felt positive about his chances of taking part.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and there are permutations around that, not only the back issue, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"It's positive. We firmly believe that he'll participate in a key capacity. Hopefully starting in Perth. Otherwise, then we'll pick it up."
Injury History
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.
There is a track record of back injuries, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss several home seasons in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be proactive in his approach in his recovery plan to ensure his availability for the series.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his recovery but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
All-rounder Cameron Green was recently pulled out from the national team for their ODI contests against India as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "small issue and stated that Green will play in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"We put so much time has gone into developing the strategy for him to participate for the initial game as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs in any case. His aggressive style the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for a short period, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
