Former India pacer David Johnson passes away at 52

David Johnson, former Karnataka and India pacer, has died at the age of 52 after reportedly suffering a fatal fall in the early hours of June 20 (Thursday). 

Mr. Johnson was also battling health issues for the past year. His teammate and former Indian Test captain Anil Kumble expressed his shock and condolences on his sad demise. 

Johnson, who played for his home state of Karnataka, was selected to play his first Test for India at the Feroz Shah Kotla in 1996 against Australia after some really good performances in the domestic season. He was also known for his pace, which was his X factor. 

In the game against Australia, he bowled in tandem with his state teammate Venkatesh Prasad while another Karnataka pacer, Javagal Srinath, was injured. He picked up Michael Slater’s wicket in that game. 

He also toured South Africa that year with the Indian team and played the first Test at Durban. There, he picked up two wickets, including Herschelle Gibbs. 

He also has a hundred to his name while playing first-class cricket. He continued to play for Karnataka until 2000/2001. He was also part of the famed Karnataka pace battery from the 90s, which included Prasad, Srinath, Dodda Ganesh, and Johnson. 

Despite an illustrious career, Johnson’s financial condition wasn’t stable, and he had to do various odd jobs after his cricket career. Later, the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) helped him, and funds were raised for him to get a house through a charity match. 

Johnson is survived by his wife.