Mitchell Johnson wants to reinvent himself as a batting all-rounder

Johnson ready for a change of role

Former Australian fast bowler Mitchell Johnson wants to reinvent himself as a batting all-rounder and is eyeing participation in various domestic T20 competitions including Big Bash League, Pakistan Super League and IPL, reports cricket.com.au. He also added that he is unsure about whether he will play for Perth Scorchers or Brisbane Heat in the BBL.

Speaking about his future commitments, Johnson said: “I’ll look at the Big Bash, I haven’t played in the Big Bash yet so it would be something to tick off. A lot of the (Australian) guys talk about how big it’s become and it’s a really exciting tournament now, the crowds are definitely turning up for it and really enjoying it.

He also added that we wants to look at plenty of other competitions and also spoke about the role that he would hope to fulfill.

“Then look at the Pakistan League, the IPL again and maybe the Caribbean (Premier League). It’s still something I’m thinking about right now and I’m not in a rush to make a decision just yet, but maybe change my role in the team in certain conditions. Maybe become a bit more of a batting all-rounder or something like that.

Fans of the fiery fast bowler, who has 313 Test and 239 ODI wickets, need not worry about not getting the opportunity to see him bowl again, as he doesn’t want to give up bowling completely.

“As long as I can still bowl a couple of balls at that 145 mark and still rattle a few guys, I think that’s still a good weapon to have,” the 34-year-old said. “It’s Twenty20 cricket and you’ve just got to be a bit smarter, it’s not about bowling fast all the time as I’ve found out in IPL.

“You can’t just bowl fast every ball, especially on those wickets you need to be able to adapt quickly and use your changes of pace. It always depends on conditions.”

Johnson not worried about not getting another chance

Johnson retired from Tests last year but was part of the recent Indian Premier League season with the Kings XI Punjab but played only three matches for the side. Off the field, he has also been busy with work on his autobiography and the micro-brewery he has invested in.

“Whether (T20 franchise) teams are interested or not … if it doesn’t happen that way, then I’m not too fussed about it,” he said about getting another chance. “But if I get that opportunity again, then I’d give 100 per cent and I always want to do the best job for the team.”