The Australian skipper has claimed over 300 dismissals in 71 Test matches with an average of 22.10.
The Australian chair of selectors the selector has stated that captain Pat Cummins will play a "major part" in the forthcoming historic rivalry.
Rumors had circulated that Cummins might miss the series due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Initial reports from the Australian camp suggested no definitive call had been made regarding his involvement, with the five-Test series kicking off on the 21st of November in the WACA.
Bailey expressed that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about his chances of participating.
"We're aware that time is getting short and multiple considerations involved, aside from the physical problem, but other factors as well," the selector added.
"It's positive. [We are] really confident that he'll participate in a major part. With luck from the opening match. Should that not happen, then we'll pick it up."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out the ODI and T20 games against India and New Zealand last month after examinations confirmed a lumbar bone stress.
There is a track record of spinal problems, with flare-ups in 2012-13, 2013-14 and 2015-16 forcing him out of multiple domestic campaigns in a limited period.
He emphasized he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his rehabilitation process to secure his spot for the contest.
He mentioned that it was unclear if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his recovery but acknowledged 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.
All-rounder Cameron Green was withdrawn recently from the national team for their ODI contests against the subcontinent side as a precautionary measure because of discomfort in his torso.
Bailey described it as a "small issue and confirmed that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "in a good place to be ready to bowl."
"Considerable effort has gone into creating the schedule for him to take part for the opening match as an batting and bowling option," he elaborated.
"Originally, he'd only feature in the first two ODIs anyway. His aggressive style the bat in limited-overs, should it hinder progress for a short period, we opted to approach this more conservatively."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026