Pavlich had minor surgery on his back after the 2012 season, forcing him to miss most of the club’s 2013 pre-season. A heel injury then kept him out of action from rounds 4-14.
“It was very interrupted, and for a bloke of his size and age, you need a free run into a season,” Sumich said.
But Sumich said the club captain hadn’t missed a beat this time around.
“Since I’ve been here, it’s the best pre-season I’ve seen him have,” he said.
“He’s done everything.
“His body is sound, he’s looking good, so, touch wood, he’s going to be leading into round 1 in the best shape he’s been for a couple of years.”
Pavlich, who turns 33 in 2014, is in the final season of a four-year contract with the club.
He has stated that he won’t make any decision on his future until later this year.
