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With the number one ranking going on the line this Friday at the WACA, Michael Clarke and the selectors have a tough decision on whether to play four quicks plus Shane Watson or to play three quicks plus Shane Watson and spinner Nathan Lyon.
Whichever way the selectors go, Mitchell Johnson must be in the attack if Australia are to win the series and regain the number one ranking.
History indicates that when Johnson plays in the Perth Test, he always gets wickets, even if he is slightly under form.
Johnson averages an impressive 18 with 30 wickets at his adopted home ground. Those wickets include a spell of against South Africa four years ago where he claimed 5/2 in 22 balls. He ended up with match figures of 11/159, his career best.
Two years he also ripped through England’s top order with 6/38 and match figures of 9/82.
Mitchell Starc looks certain to replace James Pattinson but if Australia go with a four-man pace attack, Johnson should be included. Not only does he provide a load of experience but he can also adds strength to Australia’s lower order.
Despite Johnson averaging a horrendous 85 the last series the two teams played in, he, took 33 wickets at 25 in the two series in 2008/09. Johnson is starting to recapture his 2009/10 form that saw him become the no.1 bowler in Test and ODI matches and be named cricketer of the year.
He is probably the most feared bowler of the Australian attack by the South African batsman, especially Graeme Smith, who had his left hand broken twice by Johnson in the 08/09 season.
It’s a huge risk bringing Johnson in considering his last six Test matches have yielded just 13 wickets at an average of 58 and he averaged a less than impressive 31 in the UAE series against Pakistan in August.
But if Australia are to win the third Test, claim the series and regain the no.1 ranking, Johnson has to be in the side.
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