Johnson appreciates telling comeback

Cricket365
November 24, 2013

All-rounder Mitchell Johnson basked in a very successful return to the Test XI, after leading Australia to a superb 381-run triumph over England on day four of the Ashes series opener in Brisbane on Sunday.

Johnson, who was not selected for the squad that endured a three-nil drubbing in the United Kingdom earlier this year, earned a recall on the back of some outstanding form at domestic level.

A fine four-wicket haul in the first innings and emphatic five-for in the second at the Gabba duly justified selection – and afforded the hosts a crucial lead in the five-match affair.

"I couldn't have asked for a better start. All the guys had big performances throughout this Test match. We wanted to go one-nil up here. We know last time what happened, so it's a very nice start. But that's all it is," said Johnson.

"Being one-nil up was the plan. But it's only the start of the series, not the end. There's a long way to go and we know that England are going to come back hard.

"We've got to enjoy this moment; we haven't won for a while. We went in there the dressing room and sung the team song, which was so enjoyable. Everyone is happy."

Left-hander Johnson's superb performance with the ball was complemented by a substantial contribution with the bat, after a telling half-ton – during a key partnership with vice-captain Brad Haddin – allowed the Aussies a formidable first-innings total.

"It definitely gives you that confidence, scoring runs," he added. "But I've got that confidence and belief in myself, so if I do miss out with the bat it's not a big deal. My main job is to go out there and bowl well."