Published: Jan 09, 2019, 01:00 PM (IST)
Edited: Jan 09, 2019, 01:00 PM (IST)
Batting prodigy Will Pucovski, who was parachuted into the Australia squad for two Tests against Sri Lanka in a shock call-up Wednesday, said that he can’t wait to get up there (international cricket).
“It is every kid’s dream. To think that in two weeks time there is a chance I would play for my country is amazing. I can’t use words to describe it,” said the 20-year-old as reported by AFP. I can’t wait to get up there and in amongst it.”
The 20-year-old is one of the brightest batting talents in the country, scoring a double century for Victoria last year — the first Australian under 21 to do so since Ricky Ponting.
But he has only played eight first-class matches, and after that double ton took a break from cricket because of a mental health issue.
In-form Joe Burns was recalled for the first time since the South Africa tour early last year and could open the innings with rookie Marcus Harris, who did enough against India to keep his place.
But they face competition from Matt Renshaw, who has been handed another opportunity despite misfiring in the domestic Sheffield Shield this season.
Allrounder Marnus Labuschagne was retained from the team that played the rain-affected drawn Test in Sydney this week, as was Travis Head.
Selectors also kept faith with their pace attack of Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins, with veteran Peter Siddle also included.
National selector Trevor Hohns said “there is no doubt the India series produced some disappointing results” and change was needed, after four Tests characterised by the failure of any Australian batsmen to score a century.
“Ultimately Aaron, Peter, Shaun and Mitch have not produced the performances expected of them with the bat at the Test level,” he said.
“They have been given a good opportunity, but have not produced the scores we need.”
He added, however, that the door was not closed and they must now prove themselves again in domestic cricket and the one-day series against India this month.
“Will Pucovski is an exciting young player who is making his mark in the Sheffield Shield. He is another player with a track record of making centuries,” said Hohns.
