A big news has emerged. One of the most lethal pacers of recent time may not going to play in the upcoming T20 World Cup. Because of injury, he is currently out of action. Last season in the Indian Premier League, the pacer was with Kolkata Knight Riders.

Major injury update ahead of T20 World Cup

Australia’s emerging fast bowler Spencer Johnson’s hopes of playing in the upcoming T20 World Cup have suffered a major blow. A serious back injury has ruled him out of this year’s Big Bash League (BBL) season, virtually eliminating his World Cup selection prospects. Johnson last played in the IPL when he suddenly felt back pain. The pain worsened during training ahead of the West Indies T20I series in July.

Scans revealed a stress fracture in his back. The 29-year-old left-arm fast bowler subsequently underwent months of rehab. Following scans in October, he hoped to return to the BBL by the new year, but that didn’t happen.

Brisbane Heat confirmed

The Brisbane Heat confirmed that Johnson will be unavailable for the rest of the season. Franchise CEO Terry Svenson said Spencer’s recovery is under process, but his return timeline does not allow him to play in the BBL this season. “We are disappointed for him, but we will continue to offer our full support.” Johnson, speaking about his fitness, said he has received tremendous expert support from everyone involved and is confident he will be back on the field as soon as possible.

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Australia will play their first match of the T20 World Cup on February 11. Given Johnson’s fitness status, it’s almost certain he won’t make the final 15-man squad. Johnson was seen as a potential successor to Mitchell Starc. However, during his injury, Australia has won three out of four T20I series with bowlers like Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Ellis, Ben Dwarshuis, and Xavier Bartlett. Pat Cummins could also return to the World Cup if he’s fit.

Johnson will continue his rehab in Adelaide, where he plays domestic cricket for South Australia. He has entered his name in the IPL 2026 auction and hopes to return fit for the tournament. He has set his base price at ₹1.5 crore (15 million rupees). He was released by KKR after last season.