Leicestershire bring back Marcus Harris to replace compatriot in short-term overseas deal

Harris will fill the void left by Victoria teammate Will Pucovski, whose five-match stint was called off after the opener suffered another concussion in the Sheffield Shield

Leicestershire have moved quickly to replace Will Pucovski as an overseas player for the start of the season, with Marcus Harris returning to Grace Road in his place.

Pucovski's compatriot and state teammate at Victoria played for the county before joining Gloucestershire on a two-year deal in 2022.

Leicestershire were irritated to lose the left-hander at the time and put out a statement that acknowledged their disappointment. The Cricketer understands that Harris, who was in the running to replace David Warner at the top of Australia's Test lineup before Steve Smith filled that gap, was also on the club's original shortlist before Pucovski's signing.

He scored 887 runs in 12 matches at an average of 55.44 in 2021, including a game-winning 185 in a successful run-chase of 378 against Middlesex.

"I have fond memories of the playing group and the staff," said Harris, who has represented Australia 14 times. "With it still being a Covid year we spent a lot of time together, and I really valued the bonds I built with everyone associated with the club.

"I'm grateful for the opportunity to represent Leicestershire again. My goal is to win a few games for the team and have another memorable experience with a great group."

Harris, as per Pucovski's initial deal, will be available for the first five matches of the campaign ahead of Wiaan Mulder's return as the county's second overseas player. Peter Handscomb, another Victoria batter, is already contracted for the entirety of the season following his successful stint in 2023.

The need for a last-minute reinforcement follows further misfortune for Pucovski, who pulled out of his deal at Leicestershire after suffering another concussion.

^{The unfortunate Will Pucovski has been ruled out of his stint at Grace Road (Steve Bell/Getty Images)}

The 26-year-old, whose career has been laden with blows to the head, retired hurt during Victoria's Sheffield Shield match against Tasmania after being struck by Riley Meredith.

It was his latest comeback having been hit while playing for the second XI in early February – days after his move to Grace Road for the first five County Championship matches had been confirmed.

Their campaign begins at Yorkshire at Headingley on April 5, a repeat of last season's opening fixture.

"It's a huge shame to lose Will at this stage, but his health must come first," said director of cricket Claude Henderson.

"Given the proximity to the start of the English season, it has been agreed by all parties to allow him the necessary time to recover, and we want to wish Will all the best as he continues to recuperate in Australia.

"Our recruitment team have been aware of the evolving situation, and we have plans in place to ensure our team is as strong as possible heading into the season. As such, we will be able to announce a new overseas addition shortly."

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