Jonno lands Worcestershire deal

Former Hambledon star Michael Johnson has signed for Worcestershire.

The 24-year-old keeper-batsman, who played for the Dons in 2010, penned a deal at New Road for the 2013 domestic campaign.

A dual passport holder, Johnson featured for Australia under-19s and made his first-class debut for Western Australia back in 2009.

He has claimed 34 catches and two stumping in his 10 first-class matches to date.

Johnson, who kept wicket for Kent's second string last summer, revealed his delight at joining the paid ranks in England.

'I am delighted to be given the opportunity to play for Worcestershire County Cricket Club,' he said.

'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.'

Worcestershire's director of cricket, Rhodes 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 runscoring 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.'

Johnson scored two hundreds and three half centuries for Hambledon during a triumphant 2010 campaign.

The right-hander scored 754 runs as James Scutt's side clinched promotion to Southern Electric Premier League division two alongside third-tier champions Portsmouth.