While shining in his first BBL season with Brisbane Heat, Johnson has gained the attention of selectors. Since then, he has played in two first-class games for South Australia in the Sheffield Shield, recording hauls of 6 for 87 and 7 for 47. Talented Victoria seamer Mitchell Perry, who has taken 19 wickets in his previous three Shield games, has also been recognised for his exceptional play.
Johnson, Perry, Wes Agar, Xavier Bartlett, and Joel Paris are among the several seam bowlers in the A team, while Swepson is the lone spinner chosen despite not taking part in a Test during the India trip.
“The squad contains some experienced, strong performers in state cricket, along with several emerging players we believe have exciting futures ahead of them,” national selection chief George Bailey said.
“We are committed to the continued expansion of the Australia A program and these games are specifically designed to expose these players to conditions they may not experience in Australia.
“With an Ashes this winter and a tour of New Zealand early next year, this is a great opportunity for this group to perform in similar environments to those countries.”
Australia A squad: Wes Agar, Xavier Bartlett, Aaron Hardie, Peter Handscomb, Spencer Johnson, Campbell Kellaway, Nathan McSweeney, Joel Paris, Mitch Perry, Jimmy Pierson, Matthew Renshaw, Mitchell Swepson, Tim Ward, Teague Wyllie