Will Pucovski requests to not be considered for Tests due to mental wellbeing reasons
The immediate future of Australian batting prodigy Will Pucovski is again clouded after the young Victorian requested to not be considered for the Test series against Pakistan due to mental wellbeing reasons.
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Will Pucovski has not been selected for the Australian Test squad to be announced today after requesting not to be considered as he deals with “matters pertaining to mental wellbeing.”
The young star was in line to make his Test debut but notified Australian staff on Tuesday evening that he didn’t feel ready for the opportunity – if it was presented to him.
Cameron Bancroft has been named as part of a 14-man squad along with Travis Head and the pair are in a two-way battle for the No.5 spot.
Head remains the favourite, but Bancroft was the top scorer for Australia A and presents a right-hand option in the middle-order.
Australia officially announce a 14-man squad later on Thursday.
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Pucovski follows fellow Victorians Glenn Maxwell and Nic Maddinson as Australian players in the past fortnight who have taken a break due to mental health.
Last summer, Pucovski also took leave from State and national duties to focus on his mental wellbeing and has once again been praised for his bravery.
“We applaud Will for having the courage to discuss his situation with team management in Perth,” said Australia’s high performance boss, Ben Oliver.
“Will’s decision not to nominate for Test selection was the right one in the circumstances and one that everyone in the Australian cricket family supports.
“Mental health is a complex issue that unfortunately impacts many young men and women in our society.
“By Will bravely taking this position, he will undoubtedly inspire others facing similar challenges to speak up and take positive steps towards improving their mental wellbeing.
“The most important thing now is for Will to be given the time, space and expert support that he needs to return to full health as soon as possible.
“I speak on behalf of everyone in Australian cricket when I say we wish Will the very best in his recovery.”
Alex Kountouris, Australia’s sports medicine chief said Pucovski will be well supported.
“There is much society still needs to learn in relation to mental health, but we know enough to say with great certainty that silence is not the answer,” Kountouris said.
“Cricket Australia has committed to being open about the challenges faced in managing mental health. We are putting player wellbeing first and supporting them unconditionally. That’s something we’re proud of.
“Will has demonstrated great strength in being open about his situation. While no one wants to see a fine young man like Will confronting mental wellbeing issues, we are heartened by the fact he is surrounded by excellent people who will support him. We are all right behind him.”
Originally published as Will Pucovski requests to not be considered for Tests due to mental wellbeing reasons