Spencer Johnson after his match-winning spell in the 2nd T20I match [Source: @ABsay_ek/x.com]
The young Australian pacer, Spencer Johnson impressed with his brilliant spell in the 2nd T20I against Pakistan. The left arm fast bowler became the second Australian pacer to pick up a five wicket haul in T20Is after James Faulkner. He finished his spell of four overs with five wickets for 26 runs.
The impressive performance from the young fast bowler just ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction will draw the attention of the franchises towards him. Spencer Johnson might be expensive on days, but X-factor that he brings to the table with his extra pace will keep many teams interested in him.
Here are three teams in the IPL who might actually involved in a bidding war for Spencer Johnson during the IPL 2025 mega auction -
3. Gujarat Titans
Spencer Johnson playing for GT [Source: @Bleed_In_Blue/x.com]
Why Will Gujarat Titans Target Spencer Johnson?
Spencer Johnson was a part of the Titans in the last edition of the tournament. Though the Titans did not use him too much, the fact that he is gaining forma and rhythm might keep the 2022 IPL champions interested in him.
The Titans will be looking to reform their squad and Spencer Johnson could be one of their core pacers for the upcoming seasons. In Johnson they will get an X-factor bowler who can win the game single handedly on his day. Besides, the age being on his side, the Titans can let the bowling attack revolved around him.
2. Kolkata Knight Riders
Why Will Kolkata Knight Riders Target Spencer Johnson?
The IPL 2024 marked the end of a 10-year trophy jinx for the Kolkata Knight Riders. One of the prime contributors in KKR's title run was Mitchell Starc. The Knights would ideally want to repurchase Mitchell Starc. However, if his price goes too high and they fail to get him, KKR can look at Spencer Johnson as a back up option. Much like Mitchell Starc, Spencer Johnson has the X-factor in him to win games single handedly on a good day. If KKR go ahead and trust him and allow him a couple of years, Spencer Johnson can well develop into one of their biggest match winners in the future.
1. Mumbai Indians
Why Will Mumbai Indians Target Spencer Johnson?
Mumbai Indians will be looking to bring back their glory days in the IPL. Over the years, MI have developed overseas pacers who have emerged as match winners for them. Players like Mitchell McGlenaghan, Mitchell Johnson, Adam Milne, and quite a few more have done a brilliant job for them. Spencer Johnson could be a latest addition to that list.
The Mumbai Indians prefer to have an express pacer in their arsenal and also provide the perfect conditions for him to develop. With Jasprit Bumrah already in the team and in charge of the death overs, Johnson could bring variety and dynamism into their new ball attack.