Pucovski to pad up for Vic in WA clash

YOUNG gun Will Pucovski will make his return to cricket after being named in Victoria’s team for the Sheffield Shield clash with Western Australia.

Pucovski made 243 against the Warriors in Perth in October but hasn’t played since due to a mental health issue.

Bushrangers medical staff have cleared the 20-year-old to play and he’ll line up for the table-topping Victorians for the match at the MCG starting today.

In the absence of regular captain Peter Handscomb, who is on Test duties with Australia, opener Travis Dean has been named to lead his state for the first time.

Cameron White also returns for the home team, while ex-NSW batsman Nic Maddinson is in line for his first Sheffield Shield appearance for his new state.

The Warriors will head to Melbourne with all-rounder Mitch Marsh to play after being overlooked for the first Test against India in Adelaide.

Tasmania has named two potential debutants, Charlie Wakim and Sean Willis, for its home clash against Queensland after the pair impressed in the Futures League.

The Bulls have re-called experienced pace bowler Peter George for the clash at Blundstone Arena as fifth-placed Queensland try to leapfrog fourth-placed Tasmania.

NSW have made two changes to their team for their match against South Australia at the SCG.

Leg-spinner Daniel Fallins replaces Test star Nathan Lyon, while seamer Trent Copeland is excluded due to broadcast duties at the Test for Channel Seven.

The winless Redbacks have included top-order batsman Kelvin Smith in a 12-man squad to take on the Blues, in place of Test batsman Travis Head.