Mitchell Johnson

Renowned for his fiery pace and devastating bowling, Mitchell Johnson, a former Australia fast bowler, is indelibly etched in cricket history as a legendary and controversial figure.

In this article, we going beyond his cricket career, explore his remarkable statistics, an impressive collection of records, his widely publicized personal life, and the controversies that have inevitably followed him.

Mitchell Johnson: Australia’s Controversial Fast Bowler

Mitchell Johnson, born on November 2, 1981, in Townsville, Queensland, Australia, emerged as one of cricket’s most formidable fast bowlers.

Known for his left-arm fast bowling and capable left-handed batting, Johnson’s career spanned various formats and leagues, leaving an indelible mark in the annals of cricket.

His journey from a tennis-loving teenager to a cricketing sensation is a tale of resilience, skill, and sheer determination. Here are some stories of Mitchell Johnson remarkable career:

Early Career

Johnson’s initial love for tennis took a turn at 17 when he shifted his focus to cricket. Discovered by former Test fast bowler Dennis Lillee, Johnson was described as a “once-in-nine-lives prospect“.

He joined the Australian Cricket Academy, which kickstarted his cricketing journey. Despite early setbacks with recurrent back injuries, he made a strong comeback, playing for Queensland and later for the Australia Under-19 team.

Domestic Career

Johnson’s domestic career began with Queensland in 2001, later moving to Western Australia in 2008.

His domestic prowess was evident in his first-class debut, where he hit a six off the first ball he faced.

He also played for various teams in the Big Bash League, including Perth Scorchers, showcasing his versatility and skill in the shorter format of the game.

International Career

Johnson’s international debut came in 2005 in an ODI against New Zealand. His Test debut followed in 2007 against Sri Lanka.

Johnson’s international career was marked by highs and lows, with a notable comeback in the 2013-14 Ashes series, where he dominated England’s batting lineup.

He won multiple ICC titles with Australia, including two Cricket World Cups (2007, 2015) and two ICC Champions Trophies (2006, 2009).

His international career culminated in 2015, leaving behind a legacy of 313 Test wickets and 239 ODI wickets.

IPL Career and Other Franchises

In the most prestigious Indian Premier League (IPL), Johnson played for teams like Mumbai Indians, Kings XI Punjab, and Kolkata Knight Riders.

His IPL debut was in 2013, and over his IPL tenure, he took 61 wickets in 54 matches.

Johnson’s impact was not limited to the IPL; he also played for Karachi Kings in the Pakistan Super League, adding to his global cricketing footprint.

Career Across Formats

Johnson’s versatility across formats was remarkable. In Tests, he took 313 wickets in 73 matches, including a best bowling figure of 8/61.

In ODIs, he claimed 239 wickets in 153 matches, with a best of 6/31. His T20I career, though shorter, was impactful with 38 wickets in 30 matches.

Johnson’s ability to adapt to different formats and conditions made him a valuable asset to any team he played for.

The Final Chapter: Mitchell Johnson’s Retirement

Mitchell Johnson, the left-arm pace spearhead, announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, marking the end of an illustrious and impactful career.

This decision came as Johnson felt his body was “starting to shut down“, signaling the time to step away from the sport he dominated for years.

Johnson’s retirement wasn’t just a physical decision but also a mental one. Despite opportunities to continue in T20 leagues, including the IPL, and interest from teams like the Perth Scorchers.

Johnson recognized that both his body and mind were signaling the end. “I think mentally I’m done as well“, he expressed, highlighting the comprehensive nature of his decision.

Numerous Records by the Legend – Mitchell Johnson

Mitchell Johnson, the formidable Australia fast bowler, has etched his name in the annals of cricket history with a career that spanned from 2005 to 2015.

His records in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is reflect a journey of sheer pace, aggression, and remarkable achievements. Here’s a detailed look at some of his significant records:

Top Records

Test Matches:

• Most wickets in a series: Ranked 13th with 37 wickets.
• Best figures in a match on the losing side: 11 wickets, ranking 16th.
• Fastest to 300 wickets: Achieved in 69 matches, ranking 14th.
• Best figures in an innings when on the losing side: 8 wickets, ranking 6th.
• Most wickets in a career: 313 wickets, ranking 31st.

One-Day Internationals (ODIs):

• Fastest to 200 wickets: Achieved in 129 matches, ranking 10th.
• Most wickets taken caught by a wicketkeeper: 63 wickets, ranking 8th.
• Most wickets in a career: 239 wickets, ranking 29th.
• Highest strike rate in an innings: 300.00, ranking 15th.
• Most five-wickets-in-an-innings in a career: 3 times, ranking 29th.

Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is):

• Most wickets taken hit wicket: 1 wicket, ranking 2nd.
• Outstanding bowling analyses in an innings: 1/1, ranking 18th.

Combined Test, ODI, and T20I Records

• Most wickets in a calendar year: 113 wickets, ranking 5th.
• Most wickets in career: 590 wickets, ranking 26th.
• Most balls bowled in career: 24,146 balls, ranking 34th.
• Most runs conceded in career: 15,726 runs, ranking 28th.
• Bowler/fielder combinations: 106 combinations, ranking 7th.

Other Notable Records

• 1000 runs and 100 wickets in Test matches.
• Most ducks in Test career: 19 ducks, ranking 29th.
• Best career strike rate in Tests: 51.1, ranking 50th.
• Most ten-wickets-in-a-match in Test career: 3 times, ranking 30th.
• Most player-of-the-match awards in Tests: 9 awards, ranking 35th.

Mitchell Johnson: A Glimpse into His Family Life

Mitchell Johnson, renowned for his prowess on the cricket field, has a life enriched by a supportive and loving family. Here’s a comprehensive look into the family background of this celebrated Australia cricketer:

Early Life and Parents

Mitchell Johnson was born into a well-known family in Townsville, Queensland. His journey towards cricket stardom was supported by his parents, Kevin Johnson and Vikki Harber.

Johnson’s initial ambition was to become a tennis star, but he eventually shifted his focus to cricket, a decision that was undoubtedly influenced and supported by his family.

Marriage and Personal Life

Johnson’s personal life took a significant turn when he met Jessica Bratich. Jessica, a former model and karate black belt, captivated Johnson’s heart, leading to their marriage in May 2011.

The couple’s wedding was an intimate affair, held in Western Australia’s South-West with just 50 guests.

Their romance blossomed early on, with Johnson even requesting a transfer to play with the Western Warriors in Perth to be closer to Jessica.

Children

Mitchell and Jessica Johnson are blessed with two children. Their daughter, Rubika Anne Johnson, was born in 2012, and their son, Leo Max Johnson, followed a few years later.

Johnson’s love for his children is evident, as he often regards his daughter as his lucky charm and frequently shares his family’s joyous moments on social media.

Mitchell Johnson: An Insight into His Net Worth and Financial Success

Mitchell Johnson, the retired Australian cricketer renowned for his left-arm fast bowling, has not only made a significant impact in the world of cricket but also in the financial realm.

Let’s go beyond into the details of Mitchell Johnson’s net worth, earnings, endorsements, and other financial aspects.

Net Worth and Earnings

As of 2021, Mitchell Johnson’s net worth is estimated to be around $42 million. This impressive wealth has been accumulated predominantly through his cricketing career, brand endorsements, and various business ventures.

Johnson’s journey in international cricket, which began in 2005, saw him become one of the most feared bowlers globally.

Endorsements and Brand Deals

In addition to his cricket earnings, Johnson has been associated with several endorsement deals throughout his career.

He has endorsed brands such as Adidas and Kingsgrove Sports, adding to his financial portfolio. His association with Spartan and Nissan stands out as some of the top companies he has collaborated with for the longest time.

Business Ventures and Investments

Johnson has also ventured into various business initiatives, including the Mitchell Johnson Foundation, which supports Australian causes.

His involvement in television shows, such as Dancing with the Stars, has provided him with additional income streams.

11 Controversy in Mitchell Johnson’s Career

Mitchell Johnson, the former Australian fast bowler, has been involved in several controversies throughout his career. Here’s a comprehensive look at these incidents, arranged from the most recent:

1. Comments on David Warner and Ball-Tampering (2023)

In December 2023, Johnson expressed his views on David Warner’s involvement in the ball-tampering scandal.

He criticized Warner for not fully owning up to his role in the incident and questioned the appropriateness of Warner receiving a farewell Test series, citing arrogance and disrespect.

2. Criticism of ‘Bazball’ (2023)

In June 2023, Johnson openly criticized the England cricket team’s new aggressive playing style, known as ‘Bazball’, under the leadership of Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes.

He labeled the approach as “bull****’ and a mere ‘bluff and bluster“, predicting it would backfire against Australia in The Ashes.

3. Ugly On-field Spat with Yusuf Pathan (2022)

In October 2022, during a Legends League Cricket match, Johnson was involved in an ugly altercation with Indian cricketer Yusuf Pathan.

The incident escalated to the point where Johnson pushed Pathan away after a heated verbal exchange.

This led to Johnson being fined 50 percent of his match fee. The spat reportedly began over Johnson’s objection to Pathan’s behavior towards a female umpire.

4. Brutal Attack on Pat Cummins and Others (2022)

Johnson made headlines for his scathing remarks on Australia Test captain Pat Cummins, former captain Michael Clarke, and wicket keeper Adam Gilchrist.

He criticized Cummins for his handling of Justin Langer’s resignation as Australia’s head coach, calling Cummins “gutless” and accusing him of failing his first major test as captain.

5. Conflict of Interest with ABC Commentary Job (2022)

In August 2022, Johnson was forced to quit his radio commentary job with the ABC due to a conflict of interest.

His association with a betting agency, Bet Nation, violated the national broadcaster’s strict rules, leading to his departure from the commentary team.

6. Comments on Jofra Archer’s Actions (2019)

Johnson expressed his fury over the controversy surrounding Jofra Archer’s reaction after felling Steve Smith with a bouncer during the 2019 Ashes series.

He criticized the criticism of Archer as ‘poor,’ defending the bowler’s actions and questioning the judgment of those who condemned him.

7. Confrontation with Virat Kohli (2018)

During the 2018 Perth Test, Johnson criticized India captain Virat Kohli for his behavior, particularly towards Australia captain Tim Paine.

He described Kohli’s actions as “disrespectful” and accused him of hypocrisy, saying that Kohli’s behavior contradicted his earlier statements about being a changed person.

8. Attack on Virat Kohli Over DRS Controversy (2017)

Johnson attacked India captain Virat Kohli over the DRS ‘Cheatgate’ controversy that occurred during the second Test match between India and Australia in 2017.

He accused Kohli of being frustrated due to his lack of runs and letting his emotions get the better of him.

9. Throw Controversy with Virat Kohli (2014)

In a Test match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in 2014, Johnson threw a ball at India batsman Virat Kohli, sparking controversy.

The incident led to a heated exchange between the two players, with Virat Kohli visibly upset by Johnson’s action.

10. ‘Homework-gate’ Scandal (2013)

In 2013, Johnson was one of the four Australia players dropped for a Test match against India due to the ‘Homework-gate’ scandal.

He spoke about how this incident was one of the lowest points of his career, leading him to consider quitting cricket due to the negative environment.

11. Rift During the Ashes Tour (2009)

Johnson opened up about a personal rift that affected his performance during the 2009 Ashes tour.

The controversy involved media reports about his mother’s disapproval of his then-girlfriend and now wife, Jessica Bratich. This family feud significantly impacted Johnson’s mental state during the series.