No clearance yet, but we can cope without Mitchell Johnson: Kings XI Punjab coach Sanjay Bangar

Revealing that Cricket Australia has not yet given the go-ahead for pacer Mitchell Johnson’s participation in the Champions League Twenty20 tournament, Kings XI Punjab coach Sanjay Bangar has said that the team can cope up even if he doesn’t get the clearance.

Johnson was picked by the Punjab-based side ahead of the 7th edition of the Indian Premier League and has since then been a regular member of the team, which ended as runners-up of IPL 7. Although he didn’t light up the stage last season like he did with Mumbai Indians in IPL 6, the 32-year-old’s presence added teeth to their bowling unit, providing them with more than a capable option up front with the new ball.

Bangar said: “As of now, we are still waiting for clearance from Cricket Australia. He is a quality performer, always leads the attack. Whether he is available or not, we still have a group of individuals who are capable of executing the role that is being given to them.

“It will be good if he is available, but we are ready to cope with the eventuality of his non-availability.”

The George Bailey-led side will face Hobart Hurricanes in their first fixture, at Mohali on September 18.