Spencer Johnson ruled out of upcoming UK tour, replacement named

Australian left-arm fast bowler Spencer Johnson has been ruled out of the upcoming T20I series against Scotland and England due to a side strain he picked up while playing in the Hundred for Oval Invincibles. Johnson’s injury comes as a setback just as he was beginning to establish himself in Australia’s T20I lineup.

To fill the gap, New South Wales allrounder Sean Abbott has been brought into the squad. Originally, Abbott was only slated to play in the five-match ODI series against England, but with Johnson's injury, he will now join the T20I team as well.

Johnson, who has quickly risen through the ranks after an impressive stint in the Big Bash League (BBL) with Brisbane Heat, had a challenging campaign in the Hundred, taking just two wickets in six matches. However, he did deliver a standout performance against Northern Superchargers, taking 1 for 10 from his 20 deliveries.

Since making his international debut against South Africa last year, Johnson has played five T20Is and one ODI. He is considered a potential successor to Mitchell Starc in Australia’s T20I squad when the time comes for Starc to step down. Starc, who has been rested for the T20Is against Scotland and England, will return for the ODI series. Pat Cummins, Australia’s Test captain, will miss the entire tour, while Josh Hazlewood will be available for both formats.

Abbott, who has featured in 15 T20Is for Australia, is a seasoned campaigner in domestic cricket. He holds the record for the most wickets in BBL history, with 165 dismissals to his name. In the Hundred, he has also been effective, taking nine wickets in seven matches for Birmingham Phoenix.

Joining Abbott in Australia’s T20I bowling attack will be Xavier Bartlett and Nathan Ellis, both of whom have shown promise in recent international outings. Allrounders Cameron Green, Aaron Hardie, and Marcus Stoinis will provide additional seam options.

Australia’s selectors are already thinking ahead to the next T20 World Cup, scheduled for 18 months from now, but they haven’t ruled out Starc or Cummins for the format just yet. 

Johnson’s focus will now shift to recovering in time for the start of the Australian domestic season, where he represents South Australia. Australia’s next T20I series will be against Pakistan in mid-November, potentially offering Johnson another opportunity if he is fit. Following that, Australia is not scheduled to play T20Is again until July next year when they tour the West Indies.