NEW DELHI: The cricketing world have paid glowing tribute to departing fast bowler Mitchell Johnson, who will announce his retirement from international career at the conclusion of the Perth Test against New Zealand on Tuesday.
The 34-year-year pace spearhead, who is Australia’s fourth highest Test wicket-taker with 311, called time on his career soon after similar moves by his team mates Michael Clarke, Brad Haddin, Chris Rogers and Ryan Harris.
“Good luck to @MitchJohnson398 who has always been a special bowler. Got to know him well at @mipaltan and enjoyed his aggressive approach!,” batting great Sachin Tendulkar wrote on Twitter.
“Brings tears to my eyes to think that I won't play again with my great mate @MitchJohnson398. Great team man, great friend & cricket legend,” tweeted Watson, who had also retired from Test format earlier this year.
“Incredible athlete! Congrats on a magnificent career @MitchJohnson398,” South African ODI skipper AB de Villiers said.
Johnson replaced Brett Lee as Australia's fourth highest wicket taker when he dismissed Doug Bracewell in the Perth Test. Dennis Lillee (355), Glenn McGrath (563) and Shane Warne (708) are the only bowlers to have taken more wickets.