Test hopeful Pucovski takes indefinite mental health break from cricket
Related Story: Vics' Pucovski hit on helmet by Abbott bouncer in Sheffield Shield
Victorian rising star Will Pucovski is out of cricket indefinitely because of a mental health issue.
A week ago, the 20-year-old was being mentioned as a possible Test bolter for the upcoming series against India, but now his career is on hold.
He was rested from Victoria's current Sheffield Shield match against NSW because of illness.
Late on Friday, team management said Pucovski was receiving treatment for a mental health-related illness.
"Will is a terrific young player and we need to do what's best for him at this time," Cricket Victoria manager Shaun Graf said in a statement.
"We'll continue to work with our medical staff to determine the best training and preparation plan to support Will at this time."
The shock news comes after Pucovski's 243 in the Bushrangers' Shield innings win over WA.
The performance prompted a call from former Australian Test skipper Ian Chappell for selectors to consider giving the young Victorian a call-up against India this summer.
Pucovski has scored 466 runs in his last six innings in Shield cricket, averaging 93.20 and capped by his big innings at the WACA.
He is one of only nine players, including Sir Donald Bradman and Ricky Ponting, to score a Shield double century before turning 21.
Pucovski has impressed throughout his career and the double ton had heightened speculation about when he might make his Test debut.
But Pucovski has also suffered concussion problems, including two incidents last summer.
"Will's health remains our highest priority and Cricket Victoria's medical staff will continue to provide support to Will during this time," team doctor Trefor James said.
Pucovski made his first-class debut in February last year.
He has played seven first-class games, scoring 520 runs at an average of 52 with two centuries.
AAP/ABC
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