Will Pucovski Shocks Everyone; Retires From Cricket At 27

Soumyajit Dutta

Will Pucovski [Source: @mufaddal_vohra/X]Will Pucovski [Source: @mufaddal_vohra/X]

Will Pucovski, the Australian batter hailed as a future Test star, retired from cricket after a career derailed by repeated concussions. The 27-year-old, who played just one Test in 2021, faced over 15 head injuries across sports, culminating in a severe blow during a Sheffield Shield match in March 2024. 

Despite a promising 2023-24 season, including a century against New South Wales, lingering symptoms like chronic fatigue, headaches, and dizziness forced his exit. 

Why did Will Pucovski Announce His Retirement At 27?

An independent medical panel recommended Will Pucovski's retirement, citing irreversible risks to his long-term health. Pucovski revealed his decision on SEN Radio.

“I’m not going to be playing cricket again. It’s been a really difficult year… The symptoms didn’t go away, which has led me to this decision.” 

He admitted struggling with daily tasks post-concussion. “Walking around the house was a struggle… I was sleeping a lot.”

Despite efforts to recover, he acknowledged the irreversible toll, “I just don’t want to risk doing any more damage to my brain than I’ve already done.”

Pucovski's Current Struggles & Future Plans

Pucovski continues to battle symptoms, including left-side weakness and motion sickness. While retiring as a player, he’ll coach Melbourne’s Premier club and explore commentary.

His first-class legacy includes 2,350 runs at 45.19, but his Test dream ended at one cap. “I wanted to play 100 Tests… Unfortunately, one Test is where it ends.”

A 2024 medical review urged retirement, but Pucovski delayed, hoping for recovery. “The final decision was up to me,” he said, but admitted his wish to serve to the game and holding to it as long as he could.