Highly-rated batting prospect Will Pucovski says he is not thinking about an international call-up, despite his recent unexpected elevation to the Test squad during the recent Sri Lanka series.
The 21-year-old hit his third first class century on Thursday as Sheffield Shield leaders Victoria dominated Tasmania on day three at the Junction Oval.
Pucovski hit a chanceless 131 not out as Victoria set Tasmania a massive 476-run target.
The Tigers reached 0-27 at the close.
Pucovski hit 16 boundaries and looked in confident form throughout a 160-ball innings, pushing his career average just past 50 in the process.
Pucovski was a surprise call-up last month against Sri Lanka, and while not named in the XI, he is clearly being monitored by national team selectors for Australia A or even Ashes selection.
"I have worked out that the more you take things in your stride, and not worry too much about anything other than the next ball or the next day, it is probably the better way to go," Pucovski said.
"I guess it (international selection) is one of those things where you just keep trying to do well and win games for Victoria."
Pucovski said he is "going well" after taking a break from cricket in November due to a mental health-related illness.
"It is obviously an ongoing process," he said.
"You're sort of dealing with it day by day, but things are definitely heading in the right direction.
Victoria will virtually be assured of a spot in the Shield final with two rounds remaining should they defeat Tasmania.
Pucovski batted for most of Victoria's 66-over innings, before they declared at 3-307.
Test opener Marcus Harris hit 44, Nic Maddinson 61 and Cameron White added 52 not out sharing a quickfire 100-run stand with Pucovski.
"We will definitely back ourselves in to get ten (wickets)," Pucovski said.
"It is still a day four wicket at the end of the day."
