The pace bowler has taken 309 Test scalps in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chair of selectors Bailey has stated that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the 32-year-old might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Initial reports from the squad suggested no final decision had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the Test matches kicking off on 21 November in the WACA.
He revealed that his recovery is on track and was "optimistic" about the likelihood of being involved.
"We know that time is getting short and multiple considerations around that, not only the back issue, but other factors as well," he commented.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he will feature a key capacity. Hopefully starting in Perth. If not, we'll reassess."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals recently after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with setbacks in several earlier campaigns causing him to miss three Australian summers in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to make the squad for the series.
The selector indicated that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but acknowledged it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the opener.
Contingency Plans
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will lead the side.
The talented all-rounder was excluded lately from the ODI lineup for their limited-overs matches against India as a safety move because of soreness in his side.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and stated that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Extensive planning has gone into developing the strategy for him to be available for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches regardless. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for another day, we just made the decision to take a cautious route."
Series Schedule
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
