Mitchell Johnson Ruled Out of World T20

Melbourne: Australia fast bowler Mitchell Johnson will miss cricket's World Twenty20 tournament because of a toe infection.

Cricket Australia announced on Sunday that Johnson's place in the Australian squad will be taken by the 32-year-old international veteran Doug Bollinger, a change later ratified by the game's international governing body.

Johnson's intimidating pace was a key factor in Australia's 5-0 Ashes sweep against England over the southern summer, and he backed it up with more match-winning performances in the recent Test series win in South Africa.

"Mitchell had a cut on his right big toe after the 3rd test against South Africa which became infected when he returned home," Cricket Australia chief medical officer Justin Paoloni said.

"We have given Mitchell as long as we can but unfortunately his infection hasn't responded to the treatment as quickly as we had hoped with swelling remaining in his toe and foot."

National Selector John Inverarity said it was a setback for Australia, which has never won the World T20 event.

"This is disappointing news as it was anticipated that Mitch would have a significant impact with his pace and menace," Inverarity said.

"Doug Bollinger ... has had significant experience in the sub-continent and in international white ball cricket and his ability to bowl with good pace was a factor in his selection."

Australia coach Darren Lehmann raised the prospect of Johnson's withdrawal after Australia's six wicket win over South Africa in the recent third T20 international.

Lehmann said if Johnson wasn't fit, he wouldn't be travelling to Bangladesh for the tournament, which kicked off Sunday with the hosts against Afghanistan. Australia wasn't due to play until the second stage, which stars Friday.