Strong WACA record puts Johnson in line for Australia recall
Published:Mitchell Johnson is 3/1 to be Australia’s top first innings wicket taker in the third Test against England and his prior record at the WACA could make this a big price despite his current form.
Johnson was dropped for the second Test defeat to England after returning figures of 0-170 in the series opener, but it seems that he will be recalled for the vital third Test in Perth.
Australia have named four seam bowlers in their 12-man party with one of Johnson, Ryan Harris, Peter Siddle and Ben Hilfenhaus almost certain to miss out.
However, it is unlikely to be Johnson as Australia may want the versatility of a left-armed seamer, while he has a fine previous record on the WACA pitch.
Johnson is viewed as the most dangerous weapon in the Aussie attack when on song and he has taken at least five wickets in all of his three previous Tests on the pitch, including 8-61 against South Africa in 2008/09.
Furthermore, he spent a lot of time in the nets with bowling coach Troy Cooley in the past week in an effort to find his rhythm, line and length.
There are a number of other betting opportunities involving Johnson for the third Test and these include the 6/1 offered that he is the overall top wicket taker at the WACA.
Meanwhile, betting odds of 7/1 are offered that Johnson takes five England victims in the first innings, while it is 11/8 that he takes at least three wickets in the first innings.
Australia are 7/4 to win the third Test and there is every chance that a result will be witnessed with ground staff attempting to provide a pitch that has a strong grass layer on top.
A £10 bet on Johnson taking more wickets than any other player at the WACA could see a return of £60. New Ladbrokes customers can sign up here for a free £10 bet.
