Australia’s left-arm pacer Spencer Johnson has been ruled out of the entire upcoming BBL season, leaving his T20 World Cup hopes all but dashed.
Johnson, 29, has battled ongoing back issues since the IPL, where he first felt pain he feared was a recurrence of a previous disc injury. Further scans revealed a stress fracture, and months of rehab, including Pilates and swimming, have yet to make him match-fit. Brisbane Heat confirmed he would miss the season, with CEO Terry Svenson emphasising ongoing support as Johnson continues recovery.
Australia’s first T20 World Cup match is on February 11, making it highly unlikely Johnson will be available to push for selection. While seen as a potential long-term replacement for Mitchell Starc, Australia’s current pace attack, featuring Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Ellis, Ben Dwarshuis, and Xavier Bartlett has performed well in his absence.
Johnson will continue rehab in Adelaide and remains hopeful of returning for the IPL after being released by Kolkata Knight Riders. Accordingly, England’s Reece Topley has joined Sydney Thunder as an overseas replacement for Lockie Ferguson, covering the first half of the BBL season before moving to the SA20.
