Mitchell Johnson to take up coaching after surprising retirement

After retiring during a series against New Zealand, Star Bowler Mitchell Johnson will again spring a surprise, according to his former Aussie teammate and fast bowler Ryan Harris said to Fox Sports. Ryan, who is currently the U-19 bowling coach for the Australia A side, hinted that Johnson might consider coaching.

Mitchell Johnson has played 73 Tests and took 311 wickets for Australia, ranking only behind Legendary Spinner Shane Warne, McGrath and Lillee in the list of most Test wickets for Australia. He was the key player in Australia’s 5-0 Ashes sweep in 2013-14, claiming a staggering 37 wickets across the 5 Tests and leaving an indelible mark with his pace and intimidation.

Johnson is usually not very socially active, Johnson planned to retire from all forms of cricket. But now, this decision certainly comes as a surprise. Harris, who is very close to the speedster, told that Johnson was always eager to help the youngsters  through coaching.

“I know for a fact that Mitch has an interest in coaching and particularly in coaching young bowlers and helping them develop,’’

Harris said.

“Sometimes he can come across as a scary fast bowler, but off the field he is very thoughtful and is a good thinker about the game.”

Johnson is known to have shared a lot with Harris, and the two spent a lot of time together. Harris said that Mitchell’s announcement of retiring from international cricket came as a shock to him as well. He said although Johnson was keen to take a ‘final’ break from cricket, he wished to play out the summer.

Johnson also hinted that he wanted to take up the role of coaching.

“Maybe I can become a bowling coach with Ryan Harris and go on a few under-19s tours,’’

he was quoted as saying.

Might also become a carpenter, jokes Mitchell

“I have been asking my mates if they have any jobs to employ me. I have a mate who is a roof carpenter so I might get on the roof and do some stuff there.’’