Spencer Johnson hoping to play first-class cricket again after injury-free run

Australian left-arm fast bowler Spencer Johnson is targeting a return to first-class cricket after maintaining an injury-free run throughout 2026. Johnson has not played a red-ball match since November 2024 following a severe lumbar stress fracture. He recently took a major step toward his first-class comeback by delivering 29 overs and taking 1 for 93 for South Australia's Second XI against Victoria's Second XI in Mildura.

Johnson has enjoyed steady white-ball form across 2026, featuring in the IPL, international tours, and domestic matches. He is named in Australia's 14-man squad for the upcoming ODI and T20I series against England starting November 13, 2026. South Australia's management remains open to facilitating his Sheffield Shield return as he progressively builds and sustains his red-ball bowling workload.