Will Pucovski has made a stellar return by scoring his first century in first-class cricket in over three years during Victoria’s Sheffield Shield encounter with NSW. Making a comeback to the XI following a concussion-related absence, Pucovski broke his century drought on Sunday at the SCG, marking his first hundred since November 2020.
The 26-year-old displayed remarkable patience, hitting five boundaries en route to his hundred off 258 deliveries, marking his seventh first-class century. This accomplishment is not only a cause for celebration among Australian cricket enthusiasts but is particularly significant for Pucovski himself.
Regarded as a future Test star, Pucovski’s career has been marred by multiple concussions, impacting his mental well-being and prompting breaks from the sport. Despite playing only one Test match against India in January 2021, his career has been hindered by injuries and recurring concussions.
Pucovski’s century came after a solid opening partnership between Marcus Harris and Nic Maddinson, with Pucovski joining Maddinson at the crease after Harris’s dismissal. The pair added 47 runs before Maddinson departed for 108. Pucovski then combined with Peter Handscomb, who also reached a century, before the lunch break.
Having missed the previous Shield match due to concussion symptoms, Pucovski’s return underscores the cautious approach adopted by selectors, ensuring his well-being remains a top priority.
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