Will turned down Test team spot

WILL Pucovski caught the red-eye home from Perth on Wednesday night hours after putting his mental wellbeing first and making himself unavailable for Test selection.

The 21-year-old was going to be included in Australia’s 14man squad for next week’s opening Test against Pakistan in Brisbane, but instead flew to Melbourne with his return to the game unknown.

It’s most likely to come with the spotlight elsewhere, either a Sheffield Shield game while the second Test is on, or for his club side Melbourne during the Big Bash. That decision remains in the hands of the talented batsman who was praised for his bravery in turning down what seemed near certain Test selection.

“It’s a very unfortunate happening for him once again,” selection chairman Trevor Hohns said yesterday.

“He’s a great player, he’s going to be a very good player. Obviously the timing wasn’t quite right for him.”

Test fast bowler Mitchell Starc said it was “concerning” to see another player step away from the game for mental health reasons.

“The positive thing is that the guys are feeling more comfortable about being open and honest with how they are feeling, whereas in the past they might have just tried to get through things,” Starc said.

Cricket Australia’s general manager of national teams, Ben Oliver, said Pucovski had reported some “challenges” while with the Australia A team as early as Tuesday night.

“The absolute priority is for Will as a human being. We’ll deal with cricket when the time is right,” Oliver said.

“Despite the opportunities at his feet, he’s still able to recognise there are times when it’s most important to focus on his mental wellbeing.”

It’s the second instance of Pucovski removing himself from cricket while on the cusp of national selection, having also left the Australian squad during the second Test against Sri Lanka in February.