Australian Test captain Tim Paine was “devastated” to hear of Will Pucovski’s latest bout of concussion.
The 23-year-old was struck on the head in the nets last Tuesday and is still experiencing concussion symptoms.
It’s another worrying setback for Pucovski who has suffered multiple head knocks throughout his short career.
“It’s not ideal, no doubt,” Paine told SEN Hobart’s Jack and Painey.
“Shattering when I found out. I’ve spoken to him a bit the last few days, he’s improving slowly, I don’t think it’s as bad as some of the others he’s had before. But obviously with his history we have to be very careful with anything around the brain.
“I was devastated to hear that’s it happened to him.
“He’s still hoping to be ready at some stage during this summer, so he’s got plenty of support around him and we know how good he is, there’s no need to rush him at the moment.
“He’s still 22-23 years of age, so he’s got a long time in the game if we get it right.”
It’s not clear whether Pucovski will be available for the first Ashes Test against England starting on November 8.
Marcus Harris is waiting in the wings as the Victorian recovers from what is believed to be his 10th concussion.
“It’s a blow, no doubt,” Paine said.
“In my opinion, he would’ve partnered David Warner in that first Test match, there’s no doubt about that.
“But Marcus Harris is probably the guy waiting for the opportunity and he’s just come back from a superb six months over in England playing for Leicestershire in county cricket and we know his first-class record has been outstanding for Victoria for a long time.
“He's probably the frontrunner now for that role.”
Pucovski scored 62 on Test debut against India in January and averages 53.41 in first-class cricket.