Mitchell Johnson extends stay with Perth Scorchers

Mitchell Johnson is one such player who has dominated the wickets column even after retirement. He first had a memorable outing with the Perth Scorchers in the Big Bash League, where the franchise ended up winning title. Johnson then went on to be on the winning side after he returned to Mumbai Indians in this year’s Indian Premier League.

The Ashes 2013-14 hero feels that T20 leagues are now becoming a format for the older guys to keep themselves occupied. Take the example of Johnson himself or the likes of Brendon McCullum and Kumar Sangakkara, who  are a force to reckon with despite retiring. Mitchell Johnson showed that he still had it in him after he recorded the most economical spell in BBL history with figures of 3-3 in the semi-final against Melbourne Stars

Johnson is all set for another BBL campaign, having made the decision to continue with reigning champions, Scorchers. This would be his second BBL campaign after helping Scorchers to the title last year. He was the leading wicket-taker and was also the only bowler who recorded multiple maiden-overs.

Lifted the IPL title this year

He could have retired on a high after a terrific year, however, Johnson accepts he cannot resist playing in front of packed crowds, especially after lifting the IPL title this year. For him, adding another silverware to his collection is a big lure.

“Returning for another season is a pretty easy decision when you’ve got a team like the Perth Scorchers. Not only have they played well over the years, but they’re also a great bunch of blokes. I also feel like there’s some unfinished business. I want to help the team go back-to-back and, given this is the last season at the WACA Ground, I really can’t wait to get back out there and enjoy the atmosphere the amazing crowd creates,” Johnson told cricket.com.au.

Scorchers have now filled 15 of the spots in the 18-member-squad. They are yet to name their overseas players.

Perth Scorchers squad: Adam Voges (c), Ashton Agar, Cameron Bancroft, Jason Behrendorff, Hilton Cartwright, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Mitchell Johnson, Michael Klinger, Mitch Marsh, Shaun Marsh, Joel Paris, Jhye Richardson, Ashton Turner, Andrew Tye, Sam Whiteman