Indian pacer dies amid T20 World Cup 2024; entire cricket fraternity in shock

Former India and Karnataka fast bowler David Johnson passed away at the age of 52 on Thursday (June 20) morning in Bengaluru. Johnson played two Tests for India in 1996 and picked up 3 wickets at an average of 47.66.

Known for his pace, Johnson was a regular figure for Karnataka's Ranji Trophy side during his playing days. He recorded match figures of 10-152 in a Ranji Trophy match against Kerala during the 1995-96 Ranji season.

The right-arm fast bowler made it to the Indian team on the back of some spectacular performances in the Ranji Trophy. In first-class cricket, he played 39 matches and picked up 125 wickets at an average of 28.63 with the best of 8-55 in an innings. He also had one century to his name in first-class cricket

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David Johnson clocked 150 kph in debut Test match

David Johnson made his Test debut in October 1996 against Australia at Ferozshah Kotla, Delhi. He was given the opportunity as his Karnataka teammate Javagal Srinath had sustained an injury. He picked up a solitary wicket in his debut Test, which was of Michael Slater.

One of the main highlights of Johnson's career was clocking a speed of 157.8 kph during his debut Test against Australia. At a time when India was struggling to find fast bowlers, Johnson's pace caught the eyeballs of many in the cricketing fraternity.

He played his next Test match against South Africa in Durban. He picked up the wickets of Herschelle Gibbs and Brian McMillan in this Test. But unfortunately, that turned out to be the last Test of his career as he never played for India again. He did not play any ODI for India either.

In List A cricket, David Johnson picked up 41 wickets in 33 matches at an average of 31.46 and an economy rate of 4.66. His last competitive match was in Karnataka Premier League in 2015.

Cricket Fraternity in shock after David Johnson's tragic death

The cricketing fraternity was in shock after getting in knowing about Johnson's death.  former Karnataka teammate Anil Kumble, former India cricketer Gautam Gambhir, and BCCI secretary Jay Shah were some of the few names who expressed their condolences at Johnson's death.

Saddened by the passing away of David Johnson. May god give strength to his family and loved ones.

— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) June 20, 2024