Perth, Oct 18 (NationPress) Australia’s selectors are feeling positive about captain Pat Cummins potentially playing a significant role in the forthcoming Ashes series, even as his availability remains uncertain less than five weeks before the first Test.

Chair of selectors George Bailey conveyed an optimistic outlook while addressing journalists in Perth on Saturday, indicating that Cummins’ recovery from a back issue is progressing well. “I actually have no further update on that from when I think the last time Pat spoke. It’s progressing. He’s building up. He’s optimistic about it. I think actually the more he’s done over the last few days, the more optimistic he’s become, but I categorically don’t know if he’s bowled a ball,” he stated.

Cummins had previously acknowledged that he was less likely than likely to be fit for Perth, noting he would require at least four weeks of bowling to get ready. Despite this uncertainty, Bailey pointed out encouraging signs regarding the skipper’s training intensity.

“We know time is getting short and there are various factors to consider, not just the back, but others as well. It’s positive. We’re really confident that he’s going to play a major part. Hopefully, it’s the first Test. If not, then we’ll pick it up,” Bailey added.

If Cummins is unable to recover on time, Steven Smith will take over as captain for Australia. Bailey confirmed Smith's return from New York and mentioned that he will participate in the next two Sheffield Shield matches for New South Wales.

Bailey also shared updates on Cameron Green and Beau Webster, both of whom are being cautiously managed due to minor injuries. “It is minor and it’s conservative, and I think this decision probably ensures that we do have enough time to make sure,” Bailey said regarding Green’s side soreness.

“We have invested considerable time and effort into ensuring he is available for the first Test as an allrounder. He’ll stick to his plan of participating in Shield rounds three and four... that should provide ample time for him to be in a good position to bowl.”

He also reassured fans that Webster, who is recovering from a rolled ankle, is “a lock” for the first Test squad.

“Last time he rolled his ankle, I think about five weeks later, he had a bit of a soft tissue injury. We just sort of [took] Beau through the journey of let’s work back from Sydney, rather than up to Perth... for the sake of one extra week, get it right. I think his all-round package has been really important. He’ll be in Perth. Everyone can relax,” he said.

Meanwhile, Marnus Labuschagne’s impressive domestic performance has caught Bailey’s attention, though he refrained from confirming Labuschagne’s recall to the Test side. “I thought out of everything that he’s played, I really liked the innings in Adelaide,” Bailey noted.

“I liked the intent, I liked the movement, liked the way he built the partnerships. It’s a nice bowling attack South Australia has, so he’s batting well. We know he’s a quality player,” he concluded.