The Australian selectors have left it to Will Pucovski himself to make a call on his mental fitness for the third Test match against India in Sydney. The selectors are hoping to have clarity regarding Pucovski’s availability by the end of this weekend.
Pucovski, 22, suffered the ninth concussion of his short domestic career while batting against India A in the practice match. David Warner and Will Pucovski are added to Australia’s squad for the final two Tests of the series as Joe Burns has been dropped.
Skillwise Will Pucovski is actually ready: Andrew McDonald
Batting coach Andrew McDonald feels that on batting terms the youngster is ready to play international cricket. Ahead of the Test series, the right-hander has been in thunderous form – hitting two double hundreds and an overall average of 54 in first-class cricket – he was also in Australia’s squad last summer before pulling out owing to mental health issues.
However, McDonald reckons that Pucovski will have to prove he is both physically and mentally ready to be handed a Test debut.
As quoted by The Sydney Morning Herald, Andrew McDonald said, “I think there will be a bit of trust put into the player around whether he’s mentally ready and clearly it will be up to the coach once he lays eyes on him to see where he’s at in terms of being skill ready.”
“That’s the other thing, too, there’s always a question around whether you’re mentally ready or physically meet the protocols, but is he actually ready, skill ready on the back of a short preparation?”
The batting coach maintains that the selectors and the head coach, Justin Langer, would be eager on learning about Pucvoski’s availability for the third Test. David Warner is almost certain to return to his opening spot replacing Joe Burns – Australia will have to move Matthew Wade down again if Pucovski is selected in the eleven, which would mean either Travis Head or Cameron Green will be dropped.
“And the earlier the selection panel or the head coach can make that decision they’ll be looking to make it as early as possible to settle things down as well,” McDonald added.
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