Johnston declared he wouldn’t sign with any of the eight franchises for Australia’s new-look domestic Twenty20 competition, which starts on December 16, just 10 days before the series opener against Sachin Tendulkar and Co.
The Test spearhead would have commanded more than $100,000 to take part in the new competition and fielded an offer from the Perth-based Scorchers.
However, Johnston revealed his priority was Australia’s international schedule, which includes tours to Sri Lanka and South Africa before a home summer involving two Tests against New Zealand and the much-anticipated, four-rubber showdown with the Indians.
"At the moment I've decided not to sign with any of the Twenty20 sides," Johnson told reporters in Brisbane at Australia's training camp.
"The Scorchers approached me and at the moment I'm just happy to focus on the summer coming up.
"With India coming over, they're obviously a strong side, and it might give me a chance also to go back to grade cricket if the opportunity's there. We've got a big summer coming up, Sri Lanka first, then South Africa, they're going to be big Tests for us in their home towns, and a big summer here, so that's where my main focus is."
Cricket Australia hoped all their high-profile stars would join the new competition to generate interest – Johnston is the first to ignore the Jolimont directive.
Newly-appointed skipper Michael Clarke, Allan Border Medallist Shane Watson, opener-in-waiting Phillip Hughes, wicketkeeper Brad Haddin and quick Peter Siddle are yet to sign Big Bash League contracts.
Doug Bollinger is the only other player who played in last season’s Ashes Series yet to find a franchise.
The original contracting window closes on July 22 – franchises can sign between 14 and 18 players, including two from overseas.
The Big Bash League, contested by city-based franchises rather than the traditional state associations, is an attempt to capitalise on the tribalism that has made the football codes so popular.
Traditional colours, names and player loyalties will be thrown out in the window, with players allowed to sign for the highest bidder.
The winners will qualify for the lucrative ICL tournament.
The salary cap is set at $1million and minimum wage for players at $20,000.
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Big Bash League
Franchise Colour Venue
Adelaide Strikers Blue Adelaide Oval
Brisbane Heat Teal Gabba
Hobart Hurricanes Purple Bellerive Oval
Perth Scorchers Orange WACA
Melbourne Renegades Red Etihad Stadium
Melbourne Stars Green MCG
Sydney Sixers Pink SCG
Sydney Thunder Green ANZ Stadium
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