Will Pucovski cleared for Sheffield Shield return after latest concussion
A medical panel has ruled that some of the previous injuries were likely not "true concussions"
ESPNcricinfo staff
19-Mar-2022
Will Pucovski in action for Victoria's 2nd XI on his return from concussion • Getty Images
Will Pucovski has been cleared to return to Sheffield Shield action following his latest concussion-related absence and is available for Victoria's next game against Western Australia ahead of the final at the end of the month.
Pucovski was subbed out of the match against South Australia in Adelaide last month - his 11th concussion - but has since returned to action in Premier and 2nd XI cricket. Victoria are currently leading the Sheffield Shield table and the clash against Western Australia is likely to decide who hosts the final from March 31.
A Cricket Victoria statement said a medical panel had concluded that some of Pucovski's previous injuries were likely not "true concussions" due to the low level of trauma but rather "a form of either post-traumatic migraine or stress-related response".
"Will has made positive steps in his recovery from the injury in Adelaide," Cricket Victoria's Dr Trefor James said. "Given that he has made a full and relatively quick recovery and following the experts' diagnostic formulation, the panel was happy to support Will in his desire to continue playing.
"Concussion management is, by its nature, incredibly complex and I'd like to thank those on the panel who have provided their support and expertise to allow us to proactively support Will in managing his health and wellbeing."
Pucovski was eager to resume the season with Victoria adding that he will continue to manage his mental and physical health.
"I'm really looking forward to finishing the season back in the squad. It was so worthwhile to meet with the panel and hear their views on my circumstances," he said. "Managing my health - physically and mentally - is something I have to live with moving forward and I'm really grateful for everyone's support at Cricket Victoria."
Pucovski made his Test debut against India at the SCG in January 2021 - itself delayed by concussion when he was struck on the helmet playing for Australia A prior to the series - but it became a one-off outing when he damaged his shoulder in the field which led to surgery. As he was preparing to return at the start of this season he suffered a blow in the nets which led to another concussion and sidelined him until February.