The pace bowler has claimed 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
Australia's chief selector Bailey has declared that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that had not yet healed.
Earlier indications from team management suggested no final decision had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest scheduled to begin on November 21 in the WACA.
The selector shared that Cummins is "building up" and was "optimistic" about his chances of being involved.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and various factors involved, not just the physical problem, but further aspects," Bailey remarked.
"We're encouraged. We firmly believe that he will feature a key capacity. With luck starting in Perth. Otherwise, we'll reassess."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand in the previous weeks after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of back injuries, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss three Australian summers in four years.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the series.
The selector indicated that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to regain fitness for the initial match.
Contingency Plans
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will take over the captaincy.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against the Asian giants as a precautionary measure because of soreness in his side.
He labeled it as a "minor" injury and confirmed that Green will play in the Sheffield Shield, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to take part for the initial game as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"His involvement was limited to the initial matches anyway. The way he swings the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, even if it just sets him back for 24 more hours, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
