Stories

Watch: Will Pucovski retires hurt after helmet blow, cleared of concussion

by Wisden Staff January 22, 2024 - 6:50am 2 minute read

Watch: Australia opener Will Pucovski suffered a blow on the head during a 2nd XI game for Victoria in Adelaide today (January 22).

Playing for Victoria second XI against South Australia in Adelaide, Pucovski was hit on the helmet by a bouncer from David Grant. Batting on 42, Pucovski attempted to pull a ball directed towards his head. He missed it and was struck flush on the helmet, requiring him to get immediate medical attention.

After spending a few minutes with the physio, Pucovski resumed batting but had to retire hurt after facing just four more balls. He asked for a drink and walked back as he had felt dizzy while running between the wickets after the blow.

Pucovski has had horrendous luck with head injuries throughout his cricketing career, including from accidents off the field and blows on it. He made his Test debut against India in 2021, but has not managed to play another game of international cricket so far.

A Cricket Victoria spokesperson later confirmed that the injury he suffered today did not result in a concussion: “Pucovski passed a concussion test before batting in the nets where he was given the all clear to continue playing. He will be monitored through the day and the rest of the game.”

Pucovski has not had a good start to the 2023/24 Sheffield Shield season, having scored only 189 runs at 21 from nine innings so far. The next round of Sheffield Shield fixtures will start on February 3. Victoria are schedule to play South Australia in Melbourne, where the 25-year-old Pucovski would like to improve on his record this season.