Left-arm quick Spencer Johnson’s injury has forced him out of Australia’s upcoming T20I series against Scotland and England. The 26-year-old sustained a side strain while playing for Oval Invincibles in the Hundred.
Johnson’s absence has opened the door for New South Wales allrounder Sean Abbott, who was initially only included in the ODI squad. Abbott, a leading wicket-taker in the BBL, has also impressed in the Hundred, claiming nine wickets in seven matches for Birmingham Phoenix.
Johnson’s injury is a setback for Australia, who view him as a potential replacement for Mitchell Starc in the T20 side. Starc has been rested for the T20Is but will feature in the ODIs. Pat Cummins will miss the entire tour, while Josh Hazlewood is part of both squads.
Abbott joins Xavier Bartlett, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Aaron Hardie, and Marcus Stoinis as the frontline seamers in the T20I squad. Australia’s selectors are keeping an eye on the next T20 World Cup in 18 months’ time, but have not ruled out Starc or Cummins from the format.
Johnson’s focus will now be on recovering in time for the start of the Australia domestic season, where he plays for South Australia. Australia’s next T20Is after the UK tour are a three-match series against Pakistan in mid-November, which could provide another opportunity for Johnson.
