Another worrying blow for Pucovski

WILL Pucovski has been hit in the head again by a cricket ball and is showing signs of concussion almost a week later.

It is estimated to be the 10th time the brilliant young opener has been concussed in his short career and will trigger further concerns about his long-term health and future in the game.

The 23-year-old had been earmarked as David Warner’s opening partner for the Ashes after waiting patiently in the wings to be ready to play at the top level.

The Victorian is rated a once-in-a-generation talent, he averages more than 50 in first-class cricket, has an insatiable appetite for runs and a temperament that has always been wise beyond his years.

He played his only Test against India in January in Sydney, scoring 62 in his first innings and 10 in his second.

The young batsman injured his shoulder diving in the field and was ruled out of the final match of the series. He later underwent shoulder surgery from which he is still recovering.

While he struggles to throw, selectors and coaches were keen to get him back in the side and had discussed ways of compensating for this fielding weakness.

Marcus Harris’s chances of opening the batting with Warner in the opening match against England at the Gabba have improved but there is some optimism Pucovski will return before then.

Concerns about Pucovski, who was set to play in a series of three Sheffield Shield matches against NSW, will linger, however.

The opener was taking throw downs in the nets last week when he was struck but the blow did not seem to have any great effect.

It wasn’t until the following day that symptoms began to emerge. It is understood he is resting and being treated for the symptoms.

Sources said he was in good spirits and keen to return to training.

In 2018, Pucovski took a break from the game after suffering a mental health issue during a Sheffield Shield match at the WACA.

Pucovski’s struggles began when he was concussed by an opponent during a football match at school and sidelined for six months.

He was dogged by incredible misfortune through the years having been concussed by a ball which found its way through a gap in another net, being struck by a fielder’s return and hitting his head on a door knob.