Behrendorff excited by Johnson's return

Perth Scorchers paceman Jason Behrendorff can't wait to team up with former Australia quick Mitchell Johnson in the KFC Big Bash League.

Johnson will make his eagerly awaited return to cricket with the Scorchers for BBL|06 and Behrendorff is excited by the prospect of bowling in tandem with his left-armer.

“It’ll be interesting to see how that all unfolds in December and January. But I’m really excited to play with someone like Mitch,” the 26-year-old said.

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“I’ve played a little bit with him in the past. He’s a great mentor and a great bloke and a great player as well.

“That’ll be awesome for me and I know for a lot of the younger guys in the squad as well — to have someone like Mitch, and also Ian Bell, in that squad.”

Former England Test batsman Bell has already been signed as one of the Scorchers' international players, while countryman David Willey will also provide some valuable experience.

But Johnson's signing has been the biggest coup for the Scorchers thus far, with his introduction to the squad offsetting the loss of veteran spinner and crowd favourite Brad Hogg.

Behrendorff is expecting big things from Johnson, but didn't waste any time in letting the former Test star know the pecking order for fast-bowlers at the Scorchers.

“I texted Mitch when he was announced in the squad, and I said, ‘I hope you really like bowling from the Prindiville Stand end’, because I like the Members end,” he laughed.

“He said ‘Oh yeah, good on you youngster’.”

While Behrendorff already has the start of the new BBL season pencilled in on his calendar, it's the upcoming Matador BBQs One-Day Cup that’s currently at the forefront of his mind.

Western Australia commence their campaign against South Australia in Perth on Sunday and Behrendorff is hoping he can make an immediate impact.

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Behrendorff hasn't played any cricket since he picked up a stress fracture in his back in January, but the 26-year-old has declared himself fit and ready to perform well at the Matador Cup.

“That’s been my goal for the past eight months — to be fit and selected for that first game,” he said. “I can’t wait.”