Mental health issues force Pucovski out of Australia Test squad

Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts Saturday defended the handling of young batting prospect Will Pucovski, who has left the Test squad to deal with mental health issues.

The Victorian, who turned 21 on Saturday, smashed a superb 243 for Victoria against Western Australia this season, which saw him parachuted into the national setup for the two Tests against Sri Lanka.

But he was overlooked for the first one in Brisbane and again missed out on selection for the second Test currently being played in Canberra. Pucovski travelled with the squad to the nation's capital but has now been released to return home to Melbourne.

"He reported some challenges over the past few days, and the decision has been made that the best thing for Will's welfare is for him to return home to Melbourne," Cricket Australia doctor Richard Saw said in a statement.

"Will has been proactive in this process and while he has made significant progress, he feels this is the best course of action to get ready to play cricket for Victoria."
"It is really important to note the support Will has had around him through the team doctor, psychologist in the team, and also the national network of support we've got with player development managers in every state."
"I'm comfortable with how that played out but at the same time I acknowledge not everyone will agree with me."