Surrey Signs Australian Pacer Spencer Johnson for Vitality Blast

Surrey County Cricket Club has bolstered its Vitality Blast squad with the signing of Australian fast bowler Spencer Johnson for the first eight matches of the tournament. Johnson, a left-armer, is a familiar face at The Oval, having represented Oval Invincibles in the 2023 campaign.

During his stint with Invincibles, Johnson showcased his exceptional skills, claiming five wickets, including a remarkable 3 for 1 off 20 deliveries against Manchester Originals. His impressive performance played a crucial role in Invincibles' successful title run.

Johnson's acquisition comes at an opportune time for Surrey, who will be without four key players due to their involvement in the T20 World Cup. Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Chris Jordan, and Reece Topley have all been selected by England for the global event.

The Australian pacer will join Sean Abbott as Surrey's overseas options for the Blast. The club is permitted to field a maximum of three overseas players in its squad and two in its playing XI.

"I'm thrilled to join Surrey and have some fantastic memories from playing at the Kia Oval last year," Johnson said. "Surrey has a great squad, and I'm eager to contribute with the ball in front of the passionate crowds in south London."

Alec Stewart, Surrey's director of men's cricket, expressed his delight at Johnson's signing. "Spencer is a highly talented cricketer who has proven his abilities in white-ball cricket at the highest levels," Stewart said. "He will strengthen our bowling unit during the early stages of the group stages when we have four players away at the World Cup with England."

Despite missing out on Australia's T20 World Cup squad, Johnson remains a highly sought-after player in the T20 circuit. He secured a lucrative deal worth AU$1.78 million (USD1.175 million) with Gujarat Titans in this year's Indian Premier League (IPL).

Following the Vitality Blast, Johnson will represent LA Knight Riders in Major League Cricket before returning to The Oval for his Hundred stint with Invincibles. He could potentially add to his six international caps at the end of the English summer when Australia tours for three T20Is and five ODIs.

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