Australia fast bowler Mitchell Johnson has called time on his interntaional and first-class career. The world, now, will not get to witness this fierce speed-machine donning the baggy green cap anymore.
Johnson thought that it was the right time to hang his boots and he will be retiring from the international game immediately after the conclusion of the second Test match between Australia and New Zealand, which is being held at the Western Australia Cricket Association (WACA) Stadium in Perth.
"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."
But one does feel for Johnson as it was not the way he would have wanted to call time on his international Test career. He has been tamed by Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor in this ongoing Test match at the Perth. Johnson finished with the figures of one for 157, which turned out to be the most expensive figures for any Australian speedster at Perth.
"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 is something I will treasure forever," Johnson added.
"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.
Johnson became the fourth highest Australian wicket-taker in the longest format of the game with 311 wickets under his belt. He went past Brett Lee's tally of 310 wickets after he claimed the scalp of Doug Bracewell earlier in this ongoing Test match. Only Dennis Lillee (355), Glenn McGrath (563) and Shane Warne (708) lie ahead of Johnson.
"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,"Johnson said.
"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."
Johnson played a total of 73 Test matches, but what stays and will stay in memory is the 2013 Ashes Down Under, where he demolished the English lineup almost single-handedly, picking up a staggering 37 wickets in five Test matches.
Fans in Australia and the entire world will now prepare to bid adieu to one of the most feared bowlers of our time!
