Spencer Johnson has been called up to join the Australian T20I squad, replacing injured quick Nathan Ellis for the upcoming three-match series against the West Indies. The series is scheduled to kick off on February 9.
Ellis has been granted additional time by the Australian team management to recuperate from a rib injury he suffered while representing the Hobart Hurricanes in the 2023-24 Big Bash League (BBL).
Meanwhile, Johnson has an opportunity to vie for a spot in the national team for the T20 World Cup scheduled to be held in the West Indies and the United States of America (USA) later this year.
“It is absolutely a goal,” Johnson stated following Brisbane Heat's triumph in the BBL.
Johnson made a strong impression during Heat's championship campaign, securing the position of the second-highest wicket-taker with 19 dismissals from 11 matches, maintaining an economy rate of 7.05.
He also earned the Player of the Match award in the final against the Sydney Sixers, recording figures of 4-0-26-4.
Despite featuring in two T20Is against South Africa last year, Johnson hasn't represented Australia in the format since then. Additionally, he is not included in the squad for the series against New Zealand.
Spencer Johnson rises through outstanding BBL stint
From being someone ‘unknown’ with ‘no real expectation’, Johnson has begun to establish a presence among the elite players.
"The Aussies had great success in India, winning the ODI World Cup, and I didn't miss a ball of it. Sitting on the couch watching was driving me to return … hopefully fit and performing well to be available to get picked next year," Johnson said.
"Last year I was an unknown and there was no real expectation. The Heat gave me a chance, and I was thrown into those death overs and (Power) Surge overs and that held me in really good stead for this year," he added.
In his 29 T20 appearances thus far, Johnson has claimed 35 wickets at an economy rate of 7.44. Additionally, he garnered praise for his performances with the Oval Invincibles during the 2023 Men's Hundred tournament.
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