Johnson to carry drinks in Hobart

13 December 2012 01:49

Australia have opted against using a four-pronged pace attack in the first Test against Sri Lanka with Mitchell Johnson named 12th man.

Johnson, who made his return to Test cricket in the third Test against South Africa, has been overlooked with Peter Siddle, Ben Hilfenhaus and Mitchell Starc set to lead the Australian attack at Blundstone Arena in Hobart on Friday.

It was a tough call for Johnson, who was arguably the pick of the bowlers against the Proteas with six wickets for the match.

Siddle and Hilfenhaus both return from injuries, while Nathan Lyon holds his place in the team and remains the only bowler to be selected in all four Tests this Australian summer.

The Hobart clash also marks the return of Phil Hughes, who is set to bat at first drop with Shane Watson pushed down to number four.

Australia team
Michael Clarke (c), Ed Cowan, David Warner, Phil Hughes, Shane Watson, Mike Hussey, Matthew Wade, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc, Peter Siddle, Ben Hilfenhaus