Former Indian pacer David Johnson dies at the age of 52
Former Indian pacer David Johnson died at just 52 in Bengaluru on Thursday, June 20. The cause of death is not known at this time.
The Karnataka-born cricketer played only two Tests for India in 1996, picking up three wickets. However, Johnson enjoyed a successful first-class career, picking up 125 wickets at an average of 28.63 in 39 games. The right-arm pacer also had reasonable List-A numbers with 41 scalps in 33 outings.
Johnson was among the first bowlers to clock speeds of 150 km/hr during India's home series against Australia in 1996.
He debuted for India in the one-off Test against Australia in Delhi in 1996. Despite going wicketless in the first innings, Johnson dismissed dangerman Michael Slater in the second innings as India pulled off a seven-wicket victory.
His only other game for India was the opening Test of the three-match series in South Africa in the same year. Johnson dismissed Herschelle Gibbs for a duck and dismissed all-rounder Brian McMillan to finish with impressive figures of 2/52 in the first innings.
The speedster went wicketless in the second innings as India suffered a 328-run defeat, leading Johnson to miss out on the subsequent games. Ironically, it was the last time he donned the India jersey despite playing domestic cricket until the 2001/02 season.
Jay Shah and other former Indian cricketers mourn David Johnson's death
BCCI secretary Jay Shah took to his social media handle to mourn the death of David Johnson. He was joined by other former Indian cricketers, including Anil Kumble, who played with Johnson in both his Test appearances.
"Deepest condolences to family and friends of our former Indian fast bowler David Johnson. His contributions to the game will always be remembered," tweeted Jay Shah.
Meanwhile, Kumble tweeted:
"Saddened to hear the passing of my cricketing colleague David Johnson. Heartfelt condolences to his family. Gone too soon “ Benny”!".
World Cup winner Gautam Gambhir also took to his Twitter handle and said:
"Saddened by the passing away of David Johnson. May god give strength to his family and loved ones."
Johnson's stand-out domestic performance came in the 1995-96 Ranji season, where he picked up 10/152 against Kerala, resulting in a three-wicket win for Karnataka.
The match-winning display helped him earn a national call-up to the Test side in 1996.