Melbourne, Sep 17 (IANS): A rib injury sustained during Australia's recent ODI tour of Zimbabwe has delayed pacer Mitchell Johnson's participation in the Champions League Twenty20 (CLT20).

Cricket Australia (CA) in a statement Wednesday said that it has advised Johnson against joining his team Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) immediately.

"Mitch had some rib pain during the recent ODI tour of Zimbabwe. Since returning to Australia, he has had some scans that have confirmed some irritation at the tip of the rib," CA physiotherapist Alex Kountouris said in the statement.

"He has had a break from bowling since returning to Australia and having regular treatment to resolve the problem. He has not fully recovered as yet and will be reviewed over the next week," Kountouris said.

CA's team performance Pat Howard said a decision on Johnson's release to play in the tournament will depend on how he responds to treatment. The Champions League final is scheduled for Oct 4 in Bangalore.