Wicketkeeper Johnson signs for Worcestershire (From Stourbridge News)

Wicketkeeper Johnson signs for Worcestershire

11:40am Thursday 20th December 2012 in News By Tom Guest, @tomguestWN #WENsport

WORCESTERSHIRE have signed former Australia under 19 international wicketkeeper Michael Johnson to provide competition for Ben Cox behind the stumps.

The 24-year-old gloveman, who made his first-class debut for Western Australia in 2009, spent the 2012 season playing for Kent second XI.

Johnson, who jointly holds Australian and British passports, has claimed 34 catches and two stumpings in his 10 first-class appearances and will arrive at New Road next month.

With 31-year-old Ben Scott hanging up his gloves last season, New Road director of cricket Steve Rhodes has moved to bring in a second keeper to compete with Cox.

The Worcestershire chief said: “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 cricket for the successful Scarborough CC in the Western Australia competition.

“I am looking forward with interest to the healthy scrap for the gloves with Ben.”

Johnson added: “I am delighted to be given the opportunity to play for Worcestershire.

“I am very much looking forward to working closely with Steve and the rest of the squad.

“I hope to be a part of the developing team that brings success to New Road.”