Mitchell Johnson retires from all forms of cricket

Australian pacer Mitchell Johnson, who had retired from the Big Bash League (BBL) earlier in 2018, has announced to call it quits from all forms of cricket including any other domestic T20 leagues.

“It’s over. I’ve bowled my final ball. Taken my final wicket. Today I announce my retirement from all forms of cricket,” Johnson wrote in Perth Now.
The 36-year old Johnson played his last match for Australia in 2015 against New Zealand in Perth.

The Aussie veteran has picked up 313 wickets in 73 Tests, 239 wickets in 153 ODIs and 38 in 30 T20Is.

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“My competitive urge hasn’t left me and hopefully that’s something I can use to channel into a coaching or mentoring role in the future,” Johnson wrote.

One of the most fearsome bowlers of recent years, Johnson continued to play T20 domestic leagues like BBL and IPL but now has hanged his boots.

“I had hoped to continue playing in various Twenty20 competitions around the world until perhaps the middle of next year. But the fact is my body is starting to shut down,” Johnson added.

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“When I sat down with new Perth Scorchers coach Adam Voges recently to discuss my future, he was interested in me playing on again this summer. I did believe I could still be helpful around the playing group with my experience. But I think mentally I'm done as well,” he wrote in an article titled ‘Why I’m retiring from all levels of cricket,’ the former Perth Scorchers’ pacer said. 

“If I can’t play at 100 per cent then I can’t give my best to the team. And for me it’s always been about the team,” he added.

However, Johnson didn’t completely rule out coaching but is still confused whether it will work out for him or not.

As for the next chapter in his life, Johnson didn’t rule out coaching, but wasn’t sure whether it will work out well or not.

“My competitive urge hasn’t left me and hopefully that’s something I can use to channel into a coaching or mentoring role in the future. I’m a believer in sticking to your strengths and cricket is my strength,” he said.