Mitchell Johnson has been rushed into Australia’s squad as one of three potential replacements for injured fast bowler James Pattinson in the third Test against South Africa starting on Friday at Perth.
Selectors announced the squad immediately after the second Test ended in a draw at Adelaide on Monday, when top-ranked South Africa batting through the last day after resuming at 77-4 and facing defeat.
Johnson, Josh Hazelwood and John Hastings joined Mitchell Starc, who has been 12th man for the drawn two first Tests, as candidates for a Test call-up. Peter Siddle and Ben Hilfenhaus had to shoulder extra loads in Perth after Pattinson damaged his ribs.
