Mitchell Johnson: Profile of Australia’s Left-Arm Fast Bowler
A profile of Mitchell Johnson, the left-arm Australian paceman who destroyed England in the 2013–14 Ashes, covering his career and legacy.
Mitchell Johnson was a left-arm fast bowler whose sheer pace and bounce made him one of the most feared bowlers in world cricket during the 2010s. Born in Townsville, Queensland, in 1981, he took a winding route to the top.
Early life and rise
Johnson’s potential was spotted early, and he was sent to the MRF Pace Foundation in Chennai, where Dennis Lillee helped him develop. He played for Queensland before making his Test debut for Australia in 2007. His slingy action and fast delivery, combined with the ability to swing the ball late, made him a strike bowler.
Playing style
Johnson’s bowling was built on speed, steep bounce and aggression. At his best, he was extremely hostile, using the short ball as a weapon, and he could also swing the ball in at the right-handed batter. His form could fluctuate, but at his peak he was almost unplayable.
Career highlights
His most famous period was the 2013–14 Ashes in Australia, when he took 37 wickets in a 5–0 whitewash of England. That performance earned him the ICC Cricketer of the Year award for 2014. Over his career he took 313 wickets in 73 Tests and 239 wickets in 153 one-day internationals (figures as of the end of 2024). He was also part of the Australian team that won the 2015 World Cup.
He played in the Indian Premier League for Mumbai Indians and Kings XI Punjab and in the Big Bash League for Perth Scorchers. He retired from international cricket in 2015.
Legacy
Johnson is remembered for the spell in 2013–14, when his pace reshaped a series. He has since worked as a commentator and writer, and has spoken openly about his experiences, including aspects of his mental health.
Frequently asked questions
How many wickets did Mitchell Johnson take in the 2013–14 Ashes?
He took 37 wickets as Australia won 5–0.
How many Test wickets did he take?
313 wickets in 73 Tests, as of the end of 2024.
Who helped Johnson develop his bowling?
Dennis Lillee worked with him at the MRF Pace Foundation.