It’s very nice that Mumbai Indians put their faith in me: Mitchell Johnson

Australian spearhead Mitchell Johnson was surprised to have been picked by two-time champions Mumbai Indians for this edition of the IPL. Johnson, who had an earlier stint with the Mumbai franchise, played for the Kings XI Punjab last year.

The fierce pacer was instrumental in Mumbai’s lead-up to the 2013 title, claiming 24 wickets in 17 matches of a successful season. However, Johnson couldn’t replicate his stellar performance with the ball after he was snapped by KXIP in the 2014 auction. A season which saw more lows than highs for one of Australia’s most prominent bowlers left Johnson down in the dumps.

Nevertheless, the left-arm fast bowler was rather taken aback as the Mumbai Indians once again acquired his services for the 2017 edition of the star-studded event. In an interview with The Hindu, Johnson revealed how he felt on returning to the Mumbai Indians camp for this season.

“To be honest, I didn’t like Twenty20 cricket as much because you are going back from Test matches to one-dayers to a couple of T20s here and there, so I found I didn’t really enjoy it as much. But I have really enjoyed it this year,” Johnson said.

Although the speedster has played just the two games for MI this season, he’s looked to bowl with serious pace and fervour. He has picked up 1 wicket, but what Johnson’s impressed with is his economy rate. The Australian has maintained an economy of 7.12 this season. In tandem with Mitchell McClenaghan, the duo has been aggressive at the start.

He reminisced a poor season for KXIP last year and went on to share his thoughts about this edition of the tournament and how he’s changed his outlook towards the game.

“Last year for the Kings XI I was pretty flat, to be honest. My interest levels were pretty low because I had just retired. I was on a high but cricket wasn’t my main thing at that time. I was enjoying life. That’s why I played just three games and didn’t perform. Coming with a good attitude this IPL,” he said.

“To be honest, I was surprised that I got a contract, but it’s very nice that Mumbai put their faith in me. Hopefully I have been able to give back, whether it’s on the field or off the field helping out with some of the young Indian boys. That’s what I love about the IPL, and especially with this team, that you are able to talk freely; help out. I have got some experience as well that I can pass on. I guess Mumbai saw that as well when they picked me,” Johnson shared.

The Mumbai Indians have already qualified for the playoffs and are on course of staying among the top two, allowing them to take two bites at the cherry. Johnson will hope to take the field and make a healthy contribution to his side at the business end of the tournament.