Mitchell Johnson, discovered by Dennis Lillee, evolved into a key figure in Australia's pace attack with his unique delivery style and ability to extract bounce.
Despite initial inconsistencies, he made a significant impact in both Tests and ODIs, including a standout performance in the 2008 series against South Africa.
Johnson's prowess extended to batting, contributing in tough situations. His career faced ups and downs, including a drop in form and disciplinary issues, but he returned to form, notably in the 2013-14 Ashes as the highest wicket-taker.
Post-retirement, Johnson continued to excel in T20 leagues, demonstrating his enduring skill and passion for the game.
His decision to retire was influenced by personal reflections and the tragic Phil Hughes incident, yet his post-retirement performances in T20 leagues suggest a continued zeal for cricket.
Morne Morkel, a towering South African fast bowler known for his intimidating pace and bounce, made his Test debut in 2006 and quickly became a key player for the Proteas.
Mentored by Allan Donald, Morkel's ability to generate extra bounce was crucial to his success, despite injury challenges.
His stints in county cricket with Kent and Yorkshire honed his skills, leading to significant achievements, including being named South African Cricket Annual Cricketer of the Year in 2008 alongside his brother Albie.
Morkel formed a formidable bowling partnership with Dale Steyn and Vernon Philander, and excelled in the IPL, becoming the leading wicket-taker in 2012.
He continued to impact Tests but faced struggles in limited-overs formats, leading to his retirement in 2018 due to family commitments and the rigors of international cricket.
The cricket rivalry of Mitchell Johnson and Morne Morkel, two of the most formidable fast bowlers of their era, is a tale of resilience, skill, and remarkable achievements.
Johnson, discovered as a 'once in a lifetime prospect' by Dennis Lillee, evolved into a key figure in Australia's pace attack.
Known for his stock delivery that troubled right-handers and his ability to extract bounce, Johnson's career was marked by both high peaks and challenging troughs.
His debut in Test cricket against Sri Lanka, where he took 4/96, was just the beginning of a series of impressive performances.
Johnson's prowess was not limited to his bowling; his batting ability also played a crucial role in Australia's success, helping them in tough situations.
His ODI debut against India, where he took 4/11, and his role as the highest wicket-taker in the 2007 ODI series in India, highlighted his versatility.
His performances against South Africa, particularly the 8/61 in the 2008 series and his unbeaten 96 and 123 not out in 2009, earned him the Man of the Series title.
Despite facing criticism and a dip in form, particularly during The Ashes in 2009, Johnson bounced back, showcasing his resilience.
His return to form was evident in the 2013-14 Ashes series, where he emerged as the highest wicket-taker, and his success continued against South Africa.
Johnson's career, however, was not without its challenges, including being dropped from the team and dealing with injuries.
His retirement in 2015, after surpassing Brett Lee as the fourth highest wicket-taker in Tests for Australia, marked the end of an illustrious career, though he continued to excel in T20 leagues post-retirement.
Morne Morkel, on the other hand, emerged as a frontline bowler for South Africa, known for his intimidating pace and bounce.
Making his Test debut in 2006, Morkel quickly established himself, especially as senior bowlers like Shaun Pollock and Makhaya Ntini were past their prime.
His development under the guidance of Allan Donald and his stints in county cricket with Kent and Yorkshire helped him refine his skills.
Morkel's impact was significant in various formats of the game. He became the leading wicket-taker in the 2012 IPL and continued to be a key player in Tests, forming a formidable partnership with Dale Steyn and Vernon Philander.
His performances in the 2015 ODI World Cup further cemented his reputation. However, Morkel's career was also marred by injuries and periods of ineffectiveness, particularly in limited-overs internationals.
His retirement in 2018, following a series against Australia, was influenced by family considerations and the demands of an international cricket schedule.
The rivalry of Johnson vs Morkel, marked by their unique strengths and challenges, have left an indelible mark on the cricketing world. Their rivalry on the field, characterized by fierce competition and mutual respect, remains a highlight of modern cricket history.
Mitchell Johnson Career Statistics
Career Batting Stats
Format
Matches (M)
Innings (Inn)
Not Outs (NO)
Runs (R)
High Score (HS)
Average (Avg.)
Balls Faced (BF)
Strike Rate (SR)
Hundreds (H)
Fifties (50x)
Fours (4s)
Sixes (6s)
Test
73
109
16
2065
123
22.2
3536
58.4
1
11
247
31
ODI
153
91
32
951
73
16.12
987
96.35
0
2
81
23
T20i
30
17
7
109
28
10.9
95
114.74
0
0
8
3
IPL
54
30
17
167
16
12.85
164
101.83
0
0
10
7
Career Bowling Stats
Format
Matches (M)
Innings (Inn)
Balls (B)
Runs (R)
Wickets (W)
BBM
Average (Avg.)
Economy (Econ.)
Strike Rate (SR)
5W
10W
Test
73
140
16001
8891
313
12/127
28.41
3.33
51.12
12
3
ODI
153
150
7489
6037
239
6/31
25.26
4.84
31.33
3
0
T20i
30
30
656
797
38
3/15
20.97
7.29
17.26
0
0
IPL
54
54
1232
1702
61
3/26
27.9
8.29
20.2
0
0
Morne Morkel Career Statistics
Career Batting Stats
Format
Matches (M)
Innings (Inn)
Not Outs (NO)
Runs (R)
High Score (HS)
Average (Avg.)
Balls Faced (BF)
Strike Rate (SR)
Hundreds (H)
Fifties (50x)
Fours (4s)
Sixes (6s)
Test
86
104
23
944
40
11.65
1858
50.81
0
0
143
5
ODI
117
47
18
268
32
9.24
354
75.71
0
0
24
7
T20i
44
8
5
22
8
7.33
18
122.22
0
0
3
1
IPL
70
23
12
126
23
11.45
90
140.0
0
0
11
5
Career Bowling Stats
Format
Matches (M)
Innings (Inn)
Balls (B)
Runs (R)
Wickets (W)
BBM
Average (Avg.)
Economy (Econ.)
Strike Rate (SR)
5W
10W
Test
86
160
16498
8550
309
9/110
27.67
3.11
53.39
8
0
ODI
117
114
5760
4761
188
5/21
25.32
4.96
30.64
2
0
T20i
44
44
952
1191
47
4/17
25.34
7.51
20.26
0
0
IPL
70
70
1629
2089
77
4/20
27.13
7.69
21.16
0
0
Mitchell Johnson vs Morne Morkel
The cricketing rivalry between Mitchell Johnson vs Morne Morkel, two prominent figures in the cricket world, has been marked by a series of notable performances and competitive encounters.
During the Australia cricket team’s tour of South Africa in 2008-09, Johnson showcased his bowling prowess in the 2nd Test, claiming 4 wickets for 112 runs, contributing to South Africa’s all-out for 291.
In the reciprocal series where the South Africa team visited Australia in 2008-09, the Mitchell Johnson vs Morne Morkel rivalry intensified.
Johnson’s remarkable achievement of 8 wickets for 61 runs in one of the matches stood out as the 8th best bowling figure in Australia Test cricket history at that time.
This series was a testament to the challenging conditions under which both players excelled, with Morkel also making significant contributions to South Africa’s bowling efforts.
The One Day International (ODI) series further highlighted the Morkel vs Johnson rivalry. In a particular ODI match, both pacemen exploited the conditions effectively.
Johnson’s 5 for 21 at the WACA was a crucial performance, yet it was Morkel’s 5-wicket haul, including Johnson’s wicket, that proved decisive.
Morkel’s bowling was instrumental in leveling the series for South Africa, showcasing the fluctuating fortunes and competitive spirit inherent in the Mitchell Johnson vs Morne Morkel rivalry.
Summary and Key Takeaways
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Head to Head Comparison: Mitchell Johnson vs Morne Morkel
Rivalry Overview:
The rivalry between Mitchell Johnson and Morne Morkel is notable in cricket history, characterized by their impressive performances and competitive spirit.
Mitchell Johnson's Key Performances:
In the 2008-09 South Africa tour, Johnson took 4 wickets for 112 runs in the 2nd Test.
Achieved 8 wickets for 61 runs in a match against South Africa, ranking as the 8th best figure in Australian Test cricket history.
Morne Morkel's Contributions:
Morkel also made significant contributions to South Africa's bowling efforts during the series.
ODI Series Highlights:
In an ODI match, Johnson's 5 for 21 at the WACA and Morkel's 5-wicket haul, including Johnson's wicket, were pivotal.
Mitchell Johnson's Cricket Career:
Test Career: 73 matches, 313 wickets, average 28.40.
ODI Career: 153 matches, 239 wickets, average 25.26.
T20I Career: 30 matches, 38 wickets.
IPL Career: 54 matches, 61 wickets, average 27.90.
Morne Morkel's Cricket Career:
Test Career: 86 matches, 309 wickets, average 27.66.
ODI Career: 117 matches, 188 wickets, average 25.32.
T20I Career: 44 matches, 47 wickets.
IPL Career: Significant impact, including leading wicket-taker in 2012.
Comparison and Analysis:
Career Span: Johnson (2005-2015), Morkel (2006-2018).
Test Performance: Johnson has a higher wicket tally and strike rate; Morkel has a better average and economy.
Impactful Performances: Johnson's Test record includes more five-wicket and ten-wicket hauls.
Bowling Style: Johnson's aggressive left-arm fast bowling vs. Morkel's right-arm fast bowling utilizing height for bounce.
Final Comparison:
Johnson's peak performance, particularly in the Ashes, gives him an edge in Test cricket.
Morkel's consistency and effectiveness in ODIs and his role in South Africa's bowling lineup are highly regarded.
Both players have significantly impacted cricket, each excelling in their unique styles and approaches.
Who Has a Better Performance: Mitchell Johnson vs Morne Morkel?
The cricketing world has witnessed many fierce rivalries, but few compare to the contest between Mitchell Johnson vs Morne Morkel.
Both fast bowlers have left an indelible mark on the game, captivating audiences with their speed, skill, and competitive spirit.
Johnson, an Australian left-arm fast bowler, and Morkel, a South African right-arm fast bowler, have had careers that paralleled each other in many ways, both achieving remarkable feats on the international stage.
Their journeys, marked by their unique bowling styles and significant contributions to their respective teams, who has better performance between Mitchell Johnson vs Morne Morkel?
The Highlight of Mitchell Johnson’s Cricket Career
Mitchell Johnson’s cricket career is a story of resilience and exceptional talent. Making his Test debut for Australia in 2007 against Sri Lanka, Johnson quickly established himself as a formidable force in international cricket.
His career statistics are a testament to his prowess. In Tests, he played 73 matches, taking 313 wickets at an average of 28.40, including 12 five-wicket hauls and a best bowling figure of 8/61.
In ODIs, Johnson featured in 153 games, claiming 239 wickets at an average of 25.26. His T20I record includes 38 wickets in 30 matches.
Johnson’s impact in the Indian Premier League (IPL) was equally impressive. Over 54 matches, he took 61 wickets with an average of 27.90 and a best figure of 26/3.
His ability to deliver in high-pressure situations, combined with his aggressive batting in the lower order, made him a valuable asset in all formats of the game.
The Highlight of Morne Morkel’s Cricket Career
Morne Morkel, known for his intimidating pace and bounce, made his Test debut for South Africa in 2006 against India. Throughout his career, Morkel was a consistent wicket-taker for the Proteas.
In Test cricket, he played 86 matches, securing 309 wickets at an average of 27.66, including eight five-wicket hauls.
His ODI record is equally impressive, with 188 wickets in 117 matches at an average of 25.32. In T20Is, Morkel took 47 wickets in 44 games.
Morkel’s performance in the IPL further highlights his capabilities. Playing for teams like Rajasthan Royals,Delhi Daredevils, and Kolkata Knight Riders, he became a key player, especially in the 2012 season where he was the leading wicket-taker and won the Purple Cap.
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Morne Morkel vs Mitchell Johnson: Who is Better?
The debate over who excels between Morne Morkel vs Mitchell Johnson is a fascinating one, delving into the intricacies of their cricketing prowess.
Both players have left an indelible mark on the sport, but their statistics offer a unique perspective on their individual contributions and skills. Here’s a detailed comparison of their careers:
1. Career Span and Experience
Johnson’s international career spanned a decade (2005-2015), while Morkel’s career extended over 12 years (2006-2018).
2. Performance in Test Cricket
Johnson has a slightly higher wicket tally (313) compared to Morkel (309), despite playing fewer matches.
Johnson’s strike rate of 51.1 is superior to Morkel’s 53.3, indicating his ability to take wickets more frequently.
Morkel has a marginally better bowling average and economy rate, suggesting a consistent threat in the bowling attack.
3. Impactful Performances
Johnson’s 12 five-wicket hauls and 3 ten-wicket matches in Tests highlight his ability to dominate in a game, compared to Morkel’s 8 five-wicket hauls.
4. Bowling Style and Approach
Johnson, known for his aggressive left-arm fast bowling, was particularly effective with his swinging deliveries and pace. Morkel, a right-arm fast bowler, utilized his height to generate bounce and pace, troubling batsmen consistently.
Final Words: Mitchell Johnson vs Morne Morkel Comparison
Comparing Mitchell Johnson and Morne Morkel in detail reveals two bowlers who excelled in their roles and left a lasting impact on cricket.
Johnson, with his fiery pace and ability to swing the ball, was a nightmare for batsmen, especially in the Ashes series where he consistently dismantled the England batting lineup.
His aggressive batting added depth to the Australia side. Morkel, on the other hand, used his height to generate steep bounce, troubling batsmen across the world.
His role in forming a formidable South African pace attack alongside Dale Steyn and Vernon Philander was crucial.
Statistically, Johnson has a slightly better record in Tests in terms of wickets taken and bowling average.
However, Morkel’s consistency and longevity in the ODI format give him an edge in limited-overs cricket. Both players had significant impacts in the IPL, showcasing their adaptability to different formats.
In conclusion, while Johnson’s peak performance, especially in the Ashes, might give him a slight edge in Test cricket, Morkel’s consistent threat in ODIs and his role in South Africa’s bowling attack cannot be understated.
All in all, the Mitchell Johnson vs Morne Morkel rivalry, enriched the sport of cricket.
