Spencer Johnson ruled out of BBL, T20 World Cup return unlikely (Photo source: Josh Chadwick/Getty Images for Cricket Australia)

Left-arm quick Spencer Johnson’s hopes of playing for Australia in the T20 World Cup early next year have suffered a major setback after he was ruled out of the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) season due to a back injury. Johnson has not featured since the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he experienced back pain he initially believed was a recurrence of a previous disc issue.

The 29-year-old endured further discomfort while preparing for the July T20I tour of the West Indies, and scans later confirmed a stress fracture. He subsequently underwent months of rehabilitation, including pilates and swimming, while waiting for the injury to heal. A follow-up scan in October gave him hope of returning for the next BBL season. However, Brisbane Heat confirmed on Wednesday that their title-winning fast bowler has been ruled out for the entire tournament.

"Spencer continues to recover from a back injury and pleasingly, this is improving.

However, the latest time-frame for his return to play does not enable him to participate in the BBL this season. We're all disappointed for Spencer but will provide him with ongoing support as he continues to recover,” said Brisbane Heat CEO Terry Svenson as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

Australia’s first match of the T20 World Cup is scheduled for February 11, making it highly unlikely that Johnson will recover in time to push for a spot in the final 15-member squad.

The left-arm quick had been viewed as a potential long-term replacement for Mitchell Starc, who recently retired from T20I cricket.

However, during Johnson’s absence, Australia have enjoyed strong success, winning three of their last four T20I series with a pace attack comprising Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Ellis, Ben Dwarshuis, and Xavier Bartlett. The group has settled in well, and Pat Cummins could also return for the tournament if fit.

Johnson will continue his rehabilitation in Adelaide, where he resides and holds a domestic contract with South Australia. Despite the setback, Johnson has registered for the upcoming IPL auction at the second-highest base price of INR 150 lakh. He remains hopeful of being fit and available for the 2025 season if picked, after being released by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) following the previous campaign.

"I've had plenty of expert support from everyone involved in the process and I am very confident that I will be back and doing what I love as soon as possible," Johnson said.