Surrey have enlisted the services of Australian fast bowler Spencer Johnson for their initial eight matches of the Vitality Blast.

Johnson, a left-armer who didn't secure a spot in Australia's T20 World Cup squad, is familiar with south London after playing for Oval Invincibles last season. He made an impact for Invincibles in 2023, claiming five wickets, notably with an outstanding 3 for 1 off 20 deliveries against Manchester Originals. Currently, he is competing in the Indian Premier League for Gujarat Titans.

Surrey's move to bring in Johnson aims to strengthen their Blast squad, which will be without four players due to the T20 World Cup: Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Chris Jordan, and Reece Topley, all selected for England. The team also faced a setback in March when Australian allrounder Aaron Hardie was withdrawn from a three-month stint due to workload management concerns.

Johnson will join Sean Abbott as one of the overseas options, with a maximum of three allowed in the squad and two in the playing XI.

"I'm very excited to join Surrey and I have some fantastic memories from playing at the Kia Oval last year," Johnson said. "Surrey have a great squad and I can't wait to contribute with the ball in front of the packed out crowds in south London."