FORMER Wolves star Andrew Johns was unable to get a run on the board on his debut for New South Wales' cricket team on Sunday.

The Australian rugby league legend, who may leave Newcastle Knights and rejoin Wolves next year, made the first of two guest appearances for New South Wales during their Twenty20 match against South Australia in Newcastle.

His appearance attracted a bumper crowd of over 10,000 but ultimately may have cost his side victory.

Johns, batting at number 11 but wearing his usual number seven shirt, came to the crease with New South Wales requiring 13 to win from seven balls.

He survived a stumping appeal from his first ball and did not face another one as Simon Katich, who played in the 2005 Ashes series, refused to take singles during the final over.

Katich was only able to hit four from the last six balls of the innings and his tactics sparked booing from the home crowd.

Joey had earlier bowled an over during the South Australia innings, conceding nine runs and almost gaining a wicket when a catch was dropped on the boundary.

Johns is expected to play his second and final game for New South Wales against Tasmania at Sydney's Telstra Stadium - the venue where he has produced many of his greatest rugby league performances - on Wednesday.

Find out how he gets on in the second match by visiting our website later in the week.