“Pucovski exit not based on non-selection,” insists Justin Langer

Australia coach Justin Langer has cleared the air surrounding Will Pucovski’s release, saying that his non-selection for the two Tests against Sri Lanka has nothing to be with the batsman’s mental well-being.

Pucovski was released from Australia’s Test squad in Canberra with the cricket board’s medical staff citing concerns over his well-being. The batting prodigy was parachuted into the Australia squad for the two Tests against Sri Lanka in a shock call-up earlier this month but was benched for the first Test at Brisbane.

“I don’t think that (discussion about selection) has anything to do with it,” Langer told ABC Radio Grandstand prior to play resuming at Manuka Oval this morning. “He and I have had a lot of really good conversations. There’s a lot of hype, but that’s the Australian cricket team.

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“I’ve been fascinated by the scrutiny coming into the (coaching) job. I’ve been in this business for 25 years and I’m feeling it, so I can only imagine how some of the young guys are feeling about all the scrutiny.

“I think it would be great experience for him (Pucovski) to have stepped into the jungle for a couple of weeks and see what it’s like, and I’m sure in the future he’s a good young player and he’ll get another chance.”

Pucovski, who turns 21 today will head back to Melbourne to spend his birthday with family and friends, after which he is expected to start his preparations for a return. The decision to leave Pucovski out of the squad was one that was taken after consultation with many, as per Cricket Australia doctor Richard Saw.

“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,” Saw said. “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.”