Will Pucovski takes indefinite break from cricket citing mental health issues

Emerging Australian cricketer Will Pucovski's international career has not been able to catch pace since he has been battling injuries and mental health problems. Pucovksi has once again decided to take an indefinite break from the game, but this time it is unsure as to how long he will be out of action. 

The 24-year-old has made himself unavailable for Victoria's upcoming Marsh Sheffield Shield encounter against Tasmania that gets underway on Saturday, October 29 citing personal reasons. Meanwhile, Cricket Victoria's General Manager of Cricket Performance Graham Manou did not provide much clarity on Pucovski's condition, but he assured that Cricket Victoria will continue to provide the necessary support to Pucovski.

Player welfare is always out top priority: Cricket Victoria GM

"Player welfare is always our top priority; we’ll continue to work with Will to ensure he gets the support and space he needs and welcome him back when he's ready," Manou said as quoted by Cricket Australia.

The last few years have indeed been tough for Pucovski as the promising batter had made his Test debut during the home series against India in January 2021. However, he was ruled out of the series-deciding Brisbane Test as he suffered a shoulder dislocation.

The extent of the injury was so serious that he was out of action for a prolonged period of time and eventually ended up missing the Ashes 2021/22. In his fluctuating career thus far, Pucovski has also been ruled out plenty of times for considerable durations due to concussion injuries. 

Australia are scheduled to tour India for a four-match Test series in February next year and it now remains to be seen whether Pucovski will fit into their scheme of things. The Aussies also will be defending their 'urn' on English soil with the Ashes 2023 scheduled to take place in July.