Mitchell Johnson is set to be dropped by Australia for the second Ashes Test following his woeful bowling performance in the drawn opening match in Brisbane.
Johnson is thought to have been told today by chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch that he would be axed for Friday's Test at the Adelaide Oval with fellow left-arm quick Doug Bollinger expected to replace him.
Reports in Australia claim that Johnson is furious at his omission and that he might even refuse to train with the rest of the team in their final practice session, due to begin later tonight UK time.
Johnson remains the top-rated Australian bowler in the ICC Test rankings but was horribly out of form at the Gabba, returning match figures of nought for 170 — the first time he has failed to take a wicket in his 39 Tests.
His difficulties were similar to those he endured during the first half of the 2009 Ashes summer, although he did improve towards the end of that series.
It is hard to see how Johnson will force his way back into the team in the remaining three Tests. He is likely to play for Western Australia on Friday at the WACA in Perth — the venue for the Third Test where the pacy surface should favour Johnson's bowling style.
