Spencer Johnson, Australia’s left-arm fast bowler, is optimistic that his participation in the upcoming ODI series against England could pave the way for his return to first-class cricket. The 30-year-old recently showcased his skills in South Australia’s second XI, marking his first red-ball appearance in nearly two years.
With key Australian pacemen Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc resting ahead of their Test series against New Zealand, Johnson’s role becomes critical. Nathan Ellis will also miss the ODI fixtures but is set to return for the T20 series. Johnson, having overcome a debilitating lumbar stress fracture last year, gradually re-entered the sport, starting with the IPL and then featuring in a T20I series in Bangladesh. Most recently, he played for Australia A in India and delivered his best List A performance for South Australia in mid-October.
Despite not having played first-class cricket since November 2024 and having only six such matches under his belt, Johnson’s ambition to return is undeterred. “Definitely,” he affirmed during a press meet in Adelaide. “Playing in the Second XI was a good step. It’s been two years since a red-ball game, so it’s something I’m keenly working towards.”
In a recent outing, while Australia battled in Cape Town, Johnson delivered 29 overs for South Australia’s Second XI against Victoria, his largest workload since his last Shield match. However, he acknowledges he’s still on the path to full fitness. “It’s a process,” Johnson admitted. “After a year off, it’s about regaining rhythm and building up momentum.”
Previously seen as a potential successor to Mitchell Starc, Johnson and the Australian management know there’s much ground to cover for him to handle the demands of Test cricket. Similarly, Mahli Beardman, a promising 21-year-old Western Australian pacer, is set to debut against England. Beardman is also recuperating from a stress fracture and aims to eventually transition into the longer format.
Australia’s fast-bowling reserves are under scrutiny, especially after the recent loss in Cape Town. Lance Morris is set for List A cricket after an 18-month hiatus due to back surgery. Meanwhile, Callum Vidler, fellow Under-19 World Cup-winning team-mate with Beardman, is still recovering and awaiting his return to the pitch.
For Johnson, it’s about consistency and mastering his pace and control across extended match formats. “Inconsistent performances with the new ball have been the challenge,” Johnson stated. “My selection depends on swinging the ball and maintaining speed, so keeping that up across 50-overs and longer games is my main focus.”
By building momentum in shorter formats, Johnson hopes to place himself in contention for further red-ball opportunities, contributing to Australia’s ongoing pace-bowling evolution.
