Will Pucovski in massive County Cricket development amid Aussie opening role bid

Former Australian opener Will Pucovski has signalled his intention to fight for an Australian position having signed to play for Leicestershire in the UK. Pucovski was once touted at a long-term option as opener for Australian cricket, before a series of concussions derailed his opportunity at international level.

However, the 25-year-old appears ready to get as much cricket into his schedule as possible after signing with the Foxes in the top county cricket competition and will join them in April. He will join Peter Handscomb in the Foxes XI having spoken to his Victorian teammate about the opportunity.

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“Talking to Pete, he couldn’t speak more highly about the environment and (the) club’s group of players and staff,” Pucovski said in a statement after the announcement. “I can’t wait to get over there and be part of a successful start to the season.”

The move comes after a scary moment for the Victorian in club cricket in late January. Pucovski was looking strong during a Victoria second XI clash against South Australia when he was hit in the helmet from a David Grant bouncer in the Victoria second XI clash against South Australia.

The 25-year-old was on 42 runs before the incident, but reacted in pain after the scare. Pucovski has a history of concussions and there was immediate concern over his wellbeing. The opener appeared fine and initially decided to stay out in the middle having initially been cleared as he managed to bat for another over.

However, he then signalled to his team back in the pavilion and eventually was forced to retire after the blow. There was significant concern for Pucovski after the incident, but in good news, he was able to train in the nets after the knock.

Despite appearing fine, Victoria withdrew Pucovski for the remainder of the match due to his history with concussions. Pucovski may have also had one eye on the resumption of the Sheffield Shield season that starts back up this week.

Will Pucovski's concussion setback

The Victorian has suffered 11 concussions throughout his short career. Pucovski scored 61 on his national debut at the Sydney Cricket Ground against India in 2021. He was forced out of the starting XI after a shoulder injury, which saw Marcus Harris take his position.

Since his debut, Pucovski has suffered a number of concussions and spent most of the 2021-22 season on the sideline. Pucovski returned to cricket this summer having taken leave for mental health reasons in 2022.

Pucovski isn't the only Aussie batter to have been rocked in recent weeks. On the final day of the first Test against the West Indies, Usman Khawaja was hit with a ball under his helmet and was taken for scans. The opener also retired injured but played in the second Test match at the Gabba.

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