Talented Aussie opener Will Pucovski has set his sights on forcing his way into the Test squad that will tour Pakistan as he prepares to return to action.
Australia are priced at 10/3 to win the Ashes series 5-0 but Pucovski has not been involved after suffering a number of concussions that have halted his progress.
Top talent
The 23-year-old is very highly-rated and had he been fit he would have been opening the batting with David Warner ahead of Marcus Harris.
But after suffering his 10th concussion Australia have adopted a cautious approach with him as they realise he has a long career ahead of him and needs to recover properly.
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Pucovski is now back batting and is closing in on a return to playing Sheffield Shield cricket with Victoria, when he hopes to catch the eye of the Australian selectors once again.
"The fire is definitely still burning to make sure I get back there," Pucovski said. "I'd like to say that if I am playing Shield cricket for Victoria (next month) and I've put my name up, I'm ready to go.
"The Pakistan tour is in March, so if I'm doing well and put performances on the board then I can't see why I wouldn't be in line to be selected there."
Bailey assurances
The youngster has also revealed he has been assured by chief selector George Bailey that he has not been forgotten and is firmly in their plans for the future.
"He just said 'mate just make sure you get yourself right, we want you as a sort of long-term player for Australia'," Pucovski added.
"That was pretty awesome to hear, because you do get worried that with the injury pile up that people are maybe going to give up on you."
