Introduction

David Johnson (16 October 1971 – 20 June 2024) was an Indian cricketer known for his brief international career as a fast bowler. He played in two Test matches for India in 1996, making his debut against Australia. Despite his promising start and the ability to bowl at over 95 mph, he struggled with consistency and fitness, which limited his opportunities at the international level. Johnson continued to play domestic cricket for Karnataka, where he had more success and contributed significantly to his team's bowling attack. After retiring from playing, he was involved in coaching and mentoring young cricketers.

Career

Early Career and Test Debut:

• David Johnson made his Test debut for India against Australia in the inaugural Border-Gavaskar Trophy in 1996 at Feroz Shah Kotla.
• He also played the first Test of the tour against South Africa at Durban in the same year.
• Despite a promising start, these were his only two Test appearances for India.

Domestic Career with Karnataka:

• Johnson continued playing for Karnataka until the 2001/02 season, contributing to the team's success in the late 1990s when Karnataka dominated the domestic circuit.
• He formed part of Karnataka's formidable pace attack alongside Javagal Srinath, Venkatesh Prasad, and Dodda Ganesh.

Return to Cricket with Karnataka Premier League (KPL):

• In 2009, Johnson came out of retirement to play for the Belagavi Panthers in the Karnataka Premier League (KPL).
• After a hiatus, he returned to KPL in 2015, playing five matches in the season.

Post-Retirement Challenges and Comeback:

• Following his retirement from first-class cricket, Johnson faced financial challenges and did odd jobs for survival.
• He moved to Chennai briefly but returned to cricket after support from Brijesh Patel, a former India batsman and KSCA administrator.
• A benefit match was organized to support him financially, helping him secure a house where he lived.

Coaching and Later Years:

• Johnson was involved in conducting coaching camps in Bengaluru in the last few years of his active cricketing career.
• Despite his coaching efforts, he faced challenges that prevented him from extending his coaching career further.

Death

Death: David Johnson died after falling from the balcony of his fourth-floor apartment in Bengaluru. It's believed to be a suicide.

Health Issues: He had been battling health problems and alcohol addiction, often requiring hospitalization.