Johnson given Worcestershire chance

Click here for all the latest news from the domestic cricket scene, including exclusive interviews, team news, match reports and photo galleries

Worcestershire have swooped to sign wicketkeeper Michael Johnson for the 2013 season.

The 24-year-old Australian, who is a dual-passport holder, last played first-class cricket in late 2011 for Western Australia in the Sheffield Shield.

He said: “I am delighted to be given the opportunity to play for Worcestershire. I am very much looking forward to working closely with Steve Rhodes and the rest of the squad. I hope to be a part of the developing team that brings success to New Road. I can’t wait to get started.”

Rhodes added: “Michael comes to New Road as a ready-made first-team player, having served his apprenticeship with Western Australia as a contracted player from a young age.

“At 24, he has plenty of years ahead of him. He also brings captaincy experience and run-scoring ability from playing grade cricket for the successful Scarborough CC in the WACA grade competition. I am looking forward with interest to the healthy scrap for the gloves with Ben Cox.”

Want to know what's happening at your county? Interested in how your rivals are faring? Look no further than ecb.co.uk's county-by-county page

Wicketkeeper Michael Johnson said: "I hope to be a part of the developing team that brings success to New Road. I can’t wait to get started.”