Bengaluru. Former Indian cricketer David Johnson died in Bengaluru on Thursday. 52-year-old David Johnson was part of Karnataka’s strong bowling unit, which included Anil Kumble, Javagal Srinath, Venkatesh Prasad and Dodda Ganesh.
Confirming the death, an official of the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) said that Johnson fell from the balcony of the fourth floor apartment. He was taken to the hospital, where doctors declared him dead. He left behind his wife and two children. Johnson, who ran a cricket academy, was not in good health recently.
Former Indian fast bowler and Johnson’s old friend Dodda Ganesh described the news of his death as shocking and said that we used to play together for a club called Jai Karnataka since our tennis cricket days. Later we played together for the state and the country. That bowling attack of Karnataka was the Indian bowling attack for a long time.
Anil Kumble wrote in his Instagram post, “Saddened to hear about the demise of my cricket partner David Johnson. Heartfelt condolences to his family. ‘Benny’ is gone too soon!” While BCCI secretary Jay Shah posted on Instagram. “Deepest condolences to the family and friends of our former Indian fast bowler David Johnson. His contribution to the game will always be remembered,”
Domestic Career Highlights
Johnson’s domestic cricket career saw many significant achievements. During 39 first-class matches, he took an impressive 125 wickets. His notable performances include four five-wicket hauls and one ten-wicket haul. One of his best domestic performances came during the 1995–96 Ranji Trophy season, where he took 10 wickets for 152 runs against Kerala. This performance was instrumental in getting him a place in the national team.
International debut and performances
Johnson made his Test debut for India in the one-off Test against Australia in New Delhi in 1996. In the match, he made an immediate impact by dismissing Australian opener Michael Slater. This match marked the beginning of Johnson’s brief international career.
Tour of South Africa
Following his debut, Johnson was included in the Indian squad for the tour of South Africa. He played in the first Test of the series and continued his fast bowling prowess by taking the wickets of Herschelle Gibbs and Brian McMillan. Despite his impressive debut, this was to be his last appearance for the national team.
