Cricket: Aussies axe Johnson for second Test

Australia's decision to drop Mitchell Johnson is being interpreted by many as the first major psychological blow landed by England in this winter's Ashes.

But captain Andrew Strauss is too wise to start crowing yet in a series still scoreless after one high-scoring draw in Brisbane, on the eve of the second Test.

Ricky Ponting confirmed at a press conference this morning that Johnson was being released from Australia's 13-man squad - leaving Ryan Harris, Doug Bollinger and Ben Hilfenhaus to vie for the final pace-bowling slot at the Adelaide Oval.

Strauss insisted England will waste no time worrying about Australia's selection policy but will train their eye on the challenge posed by whoever is picked to face them tomorrow.

"Mitchell has been a very good performer for Australia over a number of years, and has been spearheading their attack - so it's quite a big call for them to leave him out," said Strauss.

"But it's not something that concerns us. We've got to be ready for whoever might take his place and make sure we've got plans in place to counteract them."