The Australian men’s cricket team will miss the services of fast bowler Spencer Johnson for the 2024 T20 series against England and Scotland in September. All-rounder Sean Abbott has been named as his replacement for the tour.

Johnson suffered a side strain while playing for The Ovals Invincibles in The Hundred tournament in England. The 28-year-old, who has played only five T20 matches for Australia, has had to return home for further assessment and rehabilitation.

The injury has ruled him out of the tour of England and Scotland which is set to start on September 4. Australia will play three T20s against Scotland in Edinburgh before moving to England for another three T20 matches. They will also play five ODIs against the home side.

Sean Abbott, Johnson’s replacement on the tour, possesses more international experience. The 32-year-old has played 15 T20 matches for Australia and has taken 15 wickets at an average of 26.60 and an economy rate of 9.10.

Mitchell Marsh will lead both white-ball squads on this tour. Regular ODI captain Pat Cummins has been rested as Australia will begin another busy spell in November. They will face Pakistan and India on their tour of the subcontinent to close out the year.