Will Pucovski withdraws from Test contention for mental health reasons

Pucovski, who was in contention to make his first Test appearance, competing for a spot with Travis Head in Australia's men's national side for the first Test against Pakistan at The Gabba, made a request to withdraw his name from selection, the country's board confirmed on Thursday, 14 November.

The talented young batsman had previously spent time away from cricket due to mental health issues earlier this year, during the Canberra Test against Sri Lanka. He becomes the third player in recent months, after Glenn Maxwell and fellow Victorian Nic Maddinson, to reach out to the board over their mental health issues.

Ben Oliver, Cricket Australia’s EGM of National Teams, said the board would work towards taking positive steps to improve players' "mental well-being".

"We applaud Will for having the courage to discuss his situation with team management in Perth," Oliver said. "Will’s decision not to nominate for Test selection was the right one in the circumstances and one that everyone in the Australian cricket family supports.

"Mental health is a complex issue that unfortunately impacts many young men and women in our society. By Will bravely taking this position, he will undoubtedly inspire others facing similar challenges to speak up and take positive steps towards improving their mental well-being," he continued.

"The most important thing now is for Will to be given the time, space and expert support that he needs to return to full health as soon as possible. I speak on behalf of everyone in Australian cricket when I say we wish Will the very best in his recovery."

The board's Sports Science and Sports Medicine Manager Alex Kountouris said they will provide the youngster unconditional support to work on his well-being.

"There is much society still needs to learn in relation to mental health, but we know enough to say with great certainty that silence is not the answer," Kountouris said.

"Cricket Australia has committed to being open about the challenges faced in managing mental health. We are putting player well-being first and supporting them unconditionally. That’s something we’re proud of.

"Will has demonstrated great strength in being open about his situation. While no one wants to see a fine young man like Will confronting mental well-being issues, we are heartened by the fact he is surrounded by excellent people who will support him. We are all right behind him."