Cricket: Johnson dropped from Australian lineup

Mitchell Johnson ahs been dropped from the Australian test squad. Photo / Christine Cornege.

Australia have left out Mitchell Johnson for Friday's first Test against Sri Lanka in Hobart.

Pace bowlers Peter Siddle and Ben Hilfenhaus return after being rested from the third Test against South Africa in Perth.

Johnson on Thursday was named 12th man, with young fellow left-arm quick Mitchell Starc retaining his place for the Bellerive Test after taking eight wickets in Perth.

Johnson was impressive at the WACA Ground, claiming six wickets in his first Test appearance for 12 months.

"Mitchell bowled very well in Perth and he is unlucky to miss out,'' Australian captain Michael Clarke told a news conference on Thursday.

"Sidds and Hilf come back into the team as two guys who have performed very well for us over the last 12 months, both being fully fit.

"All four guys have performed really well. It certainly wasn't a simple decision.''

The home side retained spinner Nathan Lyon in their side despite the Hobart pitch looking like a green-top a day before the match begins.

Australia: Michael Clarke (capt), Ed Cowan, David Warner, Phil Hughes, Shane Watson, Mike Hussey, Matthew Wade, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Peter Siddle, Ben Hilfenhaus, Mitchell Johnson (12th man).

- AAP