The pace bowler has secured 309 wickets in 71 five-day games with an average of 22.10.
Australia's chief selector the selector has declared that captain Pat Cummins will be a central figure in the upcoming historic rivalry.
There were concerns that the veteran bowler might sit out due to a ongoing back issue that was still troubling him.
Earlier indications from the Australian camp suggested no official announcement had been made regarding his involvement, with the extended contest set to start on 21 November in Western Australia.
He revealed that the captain is progressing and remained hopeful about his chances of taking part.
"We're aware that the clock is ticking and there are permutations around that, not just his injury, but further aspects," the selector added.
"The outlook is good. We firmly believe that he will feature a major part. Ideally it's the first Test. Should that not happen, we'll reassess."
Previous Setbacks
Cummins was ruled out the white-ball matches against both Asian and Trans-Tasman rivals last month after scans revealed a lumbar bone stress.
Previous incidents include of recurring issues, with flare-ups in multiple past seasons causing him to miss three Australian summers in four years.
The bowler mentioned he would be ""aggressive" and "take risks" in his comeback strategy to secure his spot for the series.
He mentioned that he did not know if Cummins had begun bowling as part of his comeback but conceded it was "pressing" for him to be fit for the first Test.
Alternative Arrangements
In case of absence, ex-skipper Smith will assume leadership.
The talented all-rounder was recently pulled out from the national team for their ODI contests against the Asian giants as a preventive step because of an abdominal issue.
The selector characterized it as a "small issue and confirmed that he'll feature in the domestic first-class competition, so will be "ideally positioned to deliver overs."
"Considerable effort has gone into building out the plan for him to participate for the first Test as an batting and bowling option," the selector detailed.
"His involvement was limited to the first two ODIs in any case. The way he swings the willow in shorter formats, even if it just sets him back for another day, we opted to take a cautious route."
Match Calendar
The Historic Rivalry
From November 21, 2025 to January 7, 2026
