The Brisbane Heat are banking on their "Italian Stallion" Spencer Johnson to rise to the occasion yet again in Saturday's BBL grand final against the Perth Scorchers at Optus Stadium.
Johnson has come of age at the Heat this season, with the left-arm paceman's value on full display in the Heat's shock win over the Sydney Sixers on Thursday night.
The 27-year-old snared 3-28 to help his side restrict the Sixers to 9-116, and he looms as a key figure on the fast and bouncy Optus Stadium deck in the decider.
"What a find he's been for us," Peirson said of Johnson, who has Italian heritage.
"I know (assistant coach) Boof Lehmann has been all over him for a while now and we can see why. He's shown his class.
"He's a bowler who knows his game so well at his age, 27. He's gone through some trials and tribulations at Adelaide (with injuries).
"He's a bit of a show pony the Italian Stallion, so he will look forward to getting out and playing in front of 55,000 and show what he can do, which is bowl fast."
The Heat have been so impressed by Johnson this season that they are keen to re-sign him.
But they will face plenty of competition from the Adelaide Strikers, who are eager to lure him back their way.
"I think Dizzy (Strikers coach Jason Gillespie) is chasing his signature as well, and so teams should be," Peirson said.
"He's a left armer, big tall boy who can bowl fast. He can hold a bat, and he's good in the field as well. He's the complete package.
"We'd love to keep him and get him across to the Queensland Bulls as well.
"That's very much on the radar, but DIzzy has come sniffing now as well."
The Scorchers are aiming to win their fifth BBL crown, while the Heat are looking to add to their 2012/2013 title.
Perth will make at least one change to their side for the final after pace ace Lance Morris rejoined the Test squad.
Paceman Matt Kelly is fit to play after overcoming concussion, while spinner Peter Hatzoglou is the other option being considered.
"I can tell you it's a really difficult decision," Scorchers captain Ashton Turner said.
