WACA Test to be his last: Mitchell Johnson retires from cricket

Australian fast bowler Mitchell Johnson has told the world he will retire from cricket after today’s play at the WACA.

It puts an end to recent speculation Australia’s spearhead would pull the pin on his career after the second Test against New Zealand, where he has been notably down on pace compared to seasons past.

Johnson finishes his Test career as Australia’s fourth highest wicket taker in Test matches, with 311 from just 73 games at an average of 28.52. He is behind only Dennis Lillee, Glenn McGrath and Shane Warne for Australia. Johnson has taken been the 25th most prolific wicket taker from all nations. He is Australia’s most prolific left-handed bowler.

He will be widely remembered as the hero of Australia’s dominant 2013-14 Ashes campaign, where he took 37 wickets in the 5-0 thrashing of England. It was a stunning return to form for Johnson, who had previously been written off as too erratic and not disciplined enough for Test cricket.

However, he put paid to that, with a combination of accuracy, pace and ferocity barely seen since Bodyline.

Johnson was similarly devastating with the bat when on song, and struck 11 half centuries and a memorable hundred against South Africa at an average of 20.

Having moved from Queensland to Western Australia for his Shield cricket, it’s fitting that Johnson’s last game will be at his adopted home and the scene of some of his most destructive spells. Both South Africa and England felt the full wrath of a fired up Johnson on the bouncy pitch of the west.

Johnson leaves with plenty of awards, including the 2009 and 2014 ICC Cricketer of the Year, 2014 ICC Test Player of the Year and the Allan Border Medal.

Johnson was humble in his goodbye, which was released just before play started on the fifth day of the second Test against New Zealand.

“I feel now is the best time to say goodbye,” Johnson said.

“I have been lucky enough to have had a wonderful career and enjoyed every moment of playing for my country. It’s been an incredible ride.

“But the ride has to come to an end at some point and to do so here at the WACA is very special.

“I’ve given the decision a lot of thought. Beyond this match, I’m just not sure that I can continue competing consistently at the level required to wear the Baggy Green.

“My career has certainly had its up and downs but I can honestly say I have given it my all and am proud of everything I have achieved.

“To win an Ashes Series and a Cricket World Cup (earlier this year) is something I will treasure forever.

“My family have been by my side throughout and I could not have achieved all I have without their support.

“They have made a lot of sacrifices, especially my beautiful wife Jess who has provided me with unconditional support, and I am incredibly grateful for that.

“They say the greatest thing about playing sport is the friends you make along the way and I have been fortunate enough to play and work with some incredible people and have cemented lifelong friendships.

“I would certainly like to thank the people of Australia, and all those around the world, who have supported me.

“The encouragement I have received has been extremely humbling and playing in front of them is certainly something I will miss.”

Western Australia head coach Justin Langer paid tribute to Johnson as a fighter.

“Mitch’s career has been a wonderful example of what is required to endure the rigours of a life of professional cricket.

“He was injury-ravaged early, written off, criticized and probably wondered whether he would ever make it.

“This in mind, it is a testament to his courage, resilience, and skill that he retires as one of Australia’s greatest ever fast bowlers.

“As an athlete, he is peerless and few could bowl as fast.

“Above all that, it would be hard to meet a nicer bloke. Inside the tough exterior is an outstanding young man, who has been a credit to his family and the Australian cricket family.”