Australian selectors recalled Mitchell Johnson after running out of options: Greg Chappell

Australian selector Greg Chappell has admitted that the selection committee had recalled out of form left-arm fast bowler Mitchell Johnson for the third Ashes Test because ‘there are not a lot of options’.

Johnson was omitted after finishing with figures of 0-170 during the drawn first Test in Brisbane, but has been included in the 12-man squad for the third Test, starting in Perth from Thursday.

When asked if the selectors have opted for Johnson because they have run out of options, Chappell said: “Well, there are not a lot of options. Mitch was, up until very recently, our best wicket-taker and the one most likely to win a Test or to help us get 20 wickets.”

“If we can get him bowling well, he’s still the most dangerous bowler we have,” he added.

Chappell further expressed confidence that despite his confidence appearing to be chopped to pieces, Johnson will work hard in the nets to rediscover his lethal in-swinger.

The 29-year-old has been working with mentor Troy Cooley in Perth to raise his arm action.

“The good thing about confidence is it’s really an emotion. Once Mitchell feels comfortable with his action, I have no doubt he can get back to the sort of form we’ve seen before. So, I’m not overly worried about that,” News.com.au quoted Chappell, as saying.