The pace bowler has taken 309 wickets in 71 Test matches with an stellar bowling average.
The Australian chair of selectors the selector has confirmed that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in this winter's historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a persistent back stress problem that remained unresolved.
Earlier indications from the squad suggested no official announcement had been made regarding whether he would play, with the extended contest set to start on 21 November in the WACA.
The selector shared that the captain is progressing and felt positive about his chances of being involved.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and various factors at play, not just his injury, but further aspects," the selector added.
"We're encouraged. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a significant role. Hopefully it's the first Test. If not, we'll adjust."
Past Concerns
He was sidelined the white-ball matches against India and New Zealand recently after examinations confirmed a lower back issue.
There is a track record of back injuries, with setbacks in multiple past seasons forcing him out of several home seasons in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be bold in recovery efforts in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the contest.
The selector indicated that he did not know if the captain had resumed bowling as part of his comeback but admitted it was "getting tight" for him to recover fully for the first Test.
Backup Options
If he's unavailable, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "slight concern and confirmed that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"We put so much time has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the opening match as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"His involvement was limited to the starting games in any case. How he handles the cricket bat in white-ball cricket, should it hinder progress for a short period, the choice was made to take a cautious route."
Fixture Details
The Ashes: Australia v England
Spanning from late 2025 to early 2026
