“So that information flow and working together as captain and vice-captain will remain the same.
“Steve landed and he was in at Cricket NSW the next day batting. So he’ll do his thing. We’ve tried to tailor everyone’s prep to suit them and certain obligations around that, but very comfortable he’ll be ready to go.”
Bailey added that the panel had encouraged Beau Webster not to rush back from a sprained ankle to ensure he is 100 per cent fit by the time the Ashes series comes around, hence his absence from this week’s game between Tasmania and WA.
Webster’s ability to offer an all round option has only gained importance, given the fitness concerns for Cummins and to a lesser degree Green.
“Those sorts of injuries, yeah you can come back and play on them, but it could stay grizzly and a bit niggly,” Bailey said. “If you’re suddenly battling on a sore ankle come second, third or fourth Test, take the extra time to get it right and you’re still going to get four hits of Shield cricket and plenty of bowling.”
The selectors will settle on their squad for the first Ashes Test in Perth after round three of the Shield, with Labuschagne, Tasmanian opener Jake Weatherald and Test incumbent Sam Konstas all being closely watched by the panel.
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“We’ve been glued to each game and individuals playing them,” Bailey said. “The final decision will come down to a few other factors as well in terms of that fit and balance of what we’re after.
“But I’d much rather be making the decision on the back of people scoring runs and having to work that out rather than no-one scoring them. Good problems to have.”
Labuschagne will finish the Shield game between South Australia and Queensland in Adelaide before flying to Perth as cover for the opening ODI against India on Sunday.
Alex Carey is remaining in Adelaide after the game but will return to the squad ahead of game two in Adelaide on Thursday. Josh Philippe is set to take the gloves in Perth, while Josh Inglis is in the latter stages of his recovery from a calf problem.
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