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Will Pucovski has ruled out a return to Test cricket for Australia this summer, as he slowly works his way back into form.
Despite his urge to one day again play for Australia, the 25-year-old admits he doesn’t feel ready to pull on the baggy green just yet.
Pucovski is instead focusing on his Sheffield Shield and Premier cricket, as he continues his recovery from multiple concussions that have set back his career.
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“That’s (the urge to play for Australia) never gone away and probably never will,” Pucovski told 9News.
“I’m still very young, I’m only 25. There’s a long road ahead in my cricket career hopefully.”
His priority is to add to his five consecutive Victorian Sheffield Shield matches, which is the most he’s managed since his concussion and mental health struggles.
“The set of circumstances I’ve been dealt, it’s probably a little way down the road still. But just so happy to be playing consistently,” he said about the prospect of a Test comeback.
But Pucovski says he’ll utilise his lower grade experience to work his way up to eventual Test consideration.
“Went over to England in the off season, I’ll probably look to do that again and just keep playing as much cricket as I can,” he said.
“Hopefully get a Shield season or two under my belt and then maybe worry about the Australian side.”
Months of hard work is paying off for Pucovski, who scored 65 for Victoria in their second innings against South Australia on Thursday, helping his side to a 23-run victory.
“I feel like I’ve been hitting the ball really well in the nets. It’s just been a case of getting some runs on the board,” Pucovski said.
“It was good to spend some time out in the middle, I probably haven’t had that extended run out in the middle since I’ve been back.
“It was quite challenging batting conditions but good to … I guess just prove to yourself that you’re still doing all the right things.”
Pucovski will head back to Victoria’s Premier cricket league to play for Melbourne Cricket Club over the Australian summer, in hopes of rebuilding his confidence to compete in the baggy green once more.
