Australian T20 fast bowler Spencer Johnson has been tipped to make the jump to Test cricket by Aussie great Mark Waugh, following his dominant showing in the series against Pakistan.
After claiming the series with wins in Brisbane and Sydney, Australia hammered Pakistan by seven wickets at Bellerive Oval on Monday night thanks to Marcus Stoinis’ aggressive half-century.
All eyes are now on the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, but not long after the much anticipated Test summer, Australia will piece together a squad for the Champions Trophy, with Johnson among the contenders to force his way in.
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The left-armer was named player of the series, with his best performance a five-wicket haul in Sydney, where he recorded the best figures by an Australian seamer in the shortest format.
The quick is establishing himself as the top contender to replace Mitchell Starc, should the all format superstar get injured. Johnson has been biding his time in Australia’s white-ball squads for more than 12 months.
“He was the difference between the two teams (in Sydney),” Waugh said in commentary for Fox Cricket.
“Just that extra pace and bounce, he’s very deceptive.
“He looks like he’s bowling within himself but he gets that extra pace and lift off the pitch and that natural angle away from the right-handers.
“He’s got a good short ball, a good yorker. He’s just getting better and better.
“I think he could play Test match cricket if he keeps fit. Outstanding young bowler.
“He’s an excellent back-up for the three big boys (Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins) who aren’t playing in the squad at the moment.”
Adam Zampa also expressed optimism over Johnson’s future.
“It’s great to have him fit,” the spinner said. “He bowls fast; he hasn’t played a lot of cricket yet, but the more he plays, the better he’ll become. He’s been very impressive.
“You see these guys shining in the Big Bash; people say they deserve a chance for the national team. When they get their shot, they prove themselves.”