Australian fast bowler Mitchell Johnson appears likely to miss this year’s Twenty20 World Cup in Bangladesh due to a toe infection.
Johnson played a pivotal role in series wins against England and South Africa this summer and while a decision on his availability for the World Cup, starting later this month, has yet to be made, the full summer schedule may have played a role in the 32-year-old’s breakdown.
Mitchell Johnson and the Aussie cricketers climbing the ICC rankings
Johnson returned to Perth after helping Australia to a 2-1 series win over the Proteas, but failed to make the trip to Bangladesh with the rest of the squad on Sunday. Contarary to other reports, NineMSN claim the fast bowler is expected to miss the beginning of the tour with Cricket Australia still be holding out hope Johnson will join the team at some point.
“Mitch has been home in Perth recovering from the Test series against South Africa but has developed an infection as a result of a cut he had on his right big toe after the 3rd Test,” Cricket Australia chief medical officer Justin Paolini said of the injury to the bowler’s right, and front landing, foot.
“He is receiving treatment but his departure to Bangladesh for the ICC World T20 may be delayed until we are happy that the infection has resolved and his toe fully recovered.”
Mitchell Johnson, Glenn Maxwell Top Aussies At IPL Auction
Johnson has other incentives to get healthy, namely a huge $1 million payday headed his way if he suits up for the King’s Punjab in the Indian Premier League kicking off in mid-April.
A return to the Australian side under Darren Lehmann after a lengthy spell on the sidelines under former coach Mickey Arthur, Johnson experienced a major revival when he took 37 wickets in Australia’s 5-0 Ashes sweep and a further 22 in Australia’s three-Test win in South Africa.
Keep up with Australia’s run at the Twenty20 World Cup and get amongst CraveOnlineAU on Twitter and Facebook for daily sport, music, entertainment and gaming news.
Photo: Getty Images
