David Johnson, the former fast bowler from India and Karnataka, tragically passed away at the age of 52 after falling from the balcony of his residence in Bangalore.
Having represented India in two Test matches in 1996, Johnson had been grappling with health challenges and had recently been discharged from a nearby hospital just three days prior to the incident.
A close friend of Johnson informed CricketNext.com that he had stepped out onto the balcony to smoke a cigarette when the unfortunate accident took place. However, the exact circumstances of whether Johnson slipped accidentally or if there were other contributing factors remain unclear at this time.
“This morning, he wanted to go to the balcony and his wife told the watchman to keep an eye out. He could not walk properly. He was in the hospital last week hospital and in bad shape physically. We don’t know what exactly happened, but it is unfortunate. He was near the balcony to light a cigarette and he fell down, But, whether he slipped or was it intentionally, we cannot be acertain,” added Johnson’s friend.
Born in 1971, David Johnson made his mark in domestic cricket, playing 39 first-class matches for Karnataka, where he took 125 wickets at an average of 28.63. He also participated in 33 List-A matches, capturing 41 wickets at an average of 31.46. Johnson’s cricket career began in the 1992-93 season and concluded after the 2001 domestic season.
Known for his pace, Johnson was recognized as one of the fastest bowlers of his time. His consistent performances in domestic cricket earned him a call-up to the Indian team in 1996, replacing the injured Javagal Srinath for a solitary Test match against Australia at Feroz Shah Kotla. His selection was bolstered by his impressive display of 10 wickets for 152 runs against Kerala during the 1995-96 Ranji Trophy season. Johnson’s second and final Test appearance came later that year during India’s tour of South Africa, where he played a single Test match and dismissed Herschelle Gibbs and Brian McMillan.
BCCI secretary Jay Shah wrote on X: “Deepest condolences to family and friends of our former Indian fast bowler David Johnson. His contributions to the game will always be remembered”.
