- Opening batsman was cleared to return ahead of the four-match match against NSW
- The 26-year-old has suffered 11 concussions during his stop-start career
- Will Pucovski also took a leave of absence in 2022 for mental health reasons
Batsman Will Pucovski is over his latest concussion and has been recalled to Victoria’s Sheffield Shield squad for a crucial clash with NSW.
The 26-year-old missed Victoria’s Shield win last start against South Australia after being hit on the helmet while batting in a second XI match on January 22.
But Pucovski has been declared fit to take on the in-form Blues at the SCG from Friday.
“Unfortunately our white-ball campaign ended on Wednesday, but we now turn our attention to putting in a strong Shield performance at the SCG and putting ourselves in the race to reach the Shield final,” said David Hussey, head of men from Cricket Victoria. cricket, said.
‘It’s fantastic to welcome our captain back in Will Sutherland for the Shield after his international debut, while it’s also great to have Will Pucovski back in the squad.’
Will Pucovski is over his latest concussion and has been recalled to Victoria’s Sheffield Shield team for a crucial clash with NSW (pictured, representing Australia in 2021)
The 26-year-old was hit on the helmet while batting in a second XI match on January 22
Pucovski was cleared of concussion when he was hit on the helmet last month, but suffered delayed symptoms in the days that followed.
After taking a leave of absence for mental health reasons in 2022, Pucovski returned to cricket this summer after suffering 11 concussions.
Before his return, the right-hander, widely regarded as one of Australia’s best young hitters, had spent a year out of the game.
Pucovski has played three Sheffield Shield matches this season, with a top score of 65, and also featured in a tour match for Victoria against Pakistan.
His one and only test for Australia came against India at the SCG in January 2021, impressing with a first-innings 62 but suffering a serious shoulder injury in the same match.
Victoria sit second on the Shield table and remain a chance to secure a home final with three matches remaining.
The Vics head to Sydney at full strength, bringing with them seven players with international experience.
NSW have turned their campaign around remarkably, winning three of their last four matches, including beating reigning champions Western Australia twice.