'Hopefully it is not too far away' - Spencer Johnson shares aspirations of making Test debut

Spencer Johnson has expressed his desire to represent Australia in the longest format. His senior in the team, Mitchell Starc has been in prolific form of late, and especially in the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 against India, the pacer was on fire. Starc plucked six wickets in the first innings in Adelaide. Johnson, who made his international debut against South Africa in 2023, has set his eyes on red-ball cricket inspired by Starc’s shenanigans. 

Speaking of the 28-year-old, he has recently signed a contract with Brisbane Heat in the Big Bash League after his sensational outings for the team. This contract extension will see him with Heat for at least four seasons. Meanwhile, not only Starc, Johnson cited the legends such as Ricky Ponting and Adam Gilchrist for having a lasting impact on his aspirations for Test debut.

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"Watching Starcy, I think he is the benchmark.To be anywhere near what he is … that is what I am striving for. He has been so durable for so long. I am trying to get some hints about the way he does a few things, and he is always open to replying and giving me a few tips. He sent me a photo of how he straps his ankles and toes,” Johnson said as quoted by Yahoo Sports.

"When you first play the game and you are watching Ricky Ponting, Matthew Hayden and Adam Gilchrist on the screen, that is what you want. You want the Baggy Green. With some (good) performances, and if I can get the body right, hopefully it is not too far away,” he added.

Speaking of Australia, after losing the inaugural game of the ongoing Test series against India in Perth, the team made a resounding comeback at the Adelaide Oval to level the series 1-1. They will now move ahead to Brisbane for the third Test and the hosts will aim to carry the momentum right from the first day of the Test on Saturday, December 14.