04 March 2024 , 08:34
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Australian cricket star Will Pucovski's career is in doubt after he was forced from the pitch after suffering a knock to the head during Victoria's defeat to Tasmania.
The batter has suffered 11 previous concussions and was struck on the head just two balls into his innings. The 26-year-old immediately went down, with medical staff rushing on to treat him.
Pucovski spent several minutes crouched down and coughed violently several times. After making it up to his feet, the batter staggered off as he retired hurt, with Victoria bringing on Campbell Kellaway in his place.
"Victoria has activated a concussion substitute Sheffield Shield match. Campbell Kellaway will replace Will Pucovski after Pucovski was struck in the helmet," a Cricket Victoria spokesperson said.
"Pucovski, who walked from the field, is being monitored by medical staff. Will is currently in the hands of our medical professionals. We'll look to provide an update in due course."
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The Australian star's career is now in fresh doubt, having experienced several incidents of concussion in the past. He has suffered 11 concussions in his career and was hit on the head little more than a month ago while playing for Victoria's second team.
He retired hurt from that match, but later returned after passing a concussion test. Pucovski made his test debut for the Australian national team in 2021 against India, but missed much of 2022 to deal with his mental health struggles.
Pucovski has suffered 11 concussions over his career (Steve Bell/Getty Images)Victoria captain Will Sutherland confirmed the batter was in 'good spirits'. Sutherland also shared his hope that Pucovski would be able to return soon, after seeing his side fall to a 57-run loss.
“He’s in good spirits. I spoke to him today, he seems alright. He’s headed home already, but hopefully he can look after himself and be back playing as soon as possible,” Sutherland said after the game.
But some have called for Pucovski to be urged to retire for medical reasons after his latest head injury. South Australian spinner Amanda-Jade Wellington is one of those who believes it is time for Pucovski to stop.
“How many times has Will Pucovski been hit now? Is it getting to the point where someone needs to step in and says it’s time? I understand you love the game and want to keep playing, but your health 100 per cent comes first … scary to watch. Feel for him," Wellington tweeted.
Cricket Australia's former head doctor Peter Brukner has also questioned whether Pucovski should carry on. Brukner admitted he felt for Pucovski but insisted he had to consider bringing an end to his career.
He told the Sydney Morning Herald: "I really feel for Will and his family. You get all the testing done and the best medical advice, but there comes a time really where you’ve got to think, ‘When is enough, enough?’”