The Australian skipper has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chair of selectors the selector has declared that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in this winter's historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that the 32-year-old might be unavailable due to a ongoing back issue that remained unresolved.
Previous updates from team management suggested no official announcement had been made regarding Cummins' participation, with the five-Test series scheduled to begin on November 21 in the WACA.
He revealed that Cummins is "building up" and remained hopeful about his chances of participating.
"We're aware that time is getting short and multiple considerations at play, not just the physical problem, but further aspects," the selector added.
"It's positive. There's strong faith that he will feature a key capacity. With luck from the opening match. If not, we'll adjust."
Injury History
Cummins was ruled out Australia's limited-overs series against New Zealand and India recently after scans revealed a stress reaction in his back.
Previous incidents include of back injuries, with setbacks in multiple past seasons leading to absences from several home seasons in a limited period.
Cummins stated he would be bold in recovery efforts in his rehabilitation process to ensure his availability for the contest.
Bailey noted that it was unclear if he had started his bowling workouts as part of his comeback but admitted it was "becoming urgent" for him to recover fully for the initial match.
Alternative Arrangements
Should Cummins not be fit, veteran batsman Smith will lead the side.
Versatile player Green was withdrawn recently from Australia's squad for their limited-overs matches against the subcontinent side as a safety move because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and stated that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "well-prepared to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into developing the strategy for him to take part for the opening match as an all-rounder," Bailey explained.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the initial matches anyway. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, if it causes any delay for another day, the choice was made to adopt a safer strategy."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
21 November 2025 - 7 January 2026
