Bangalore: David Johnson, rings a bell... the one Indian medium pacer who failed to live up to expectations, finally called it a day. Having come on the scene just when fast/ medium pace bowling was making a mark in the Indian game, David Johnson failed to fulfil the potential within him. "At the outset, I take this opportunity to thank every member of the media for having extended the support which I thoroughly enjoyed. Though I would love to thank everyone individually and in person I am sure you will understand and excuse my inability to do so," he said in a written statement while announcing his retirement from the game on Friday. "You will recall that I started as an unknown young cricketer with Swastic Union Cricket Club in the local league. For this early opportunity I am extremely grateful to my mentor Irfan Sait who stood by me throughout. I am also grateful to the Swastic Union committee headed by Brijesh Patel and Y B Patel," he said. "When I first played with Brijesh for Swastic Union as a 17-year-old, I did not even realise what a big personality he was. Unknowingly I learnt a lot of early lessons from his advice and his presence in those league matches," the statement said. "I am ever so grateful to G R Vishwanath who recognised my talent as the chairman of the India selection committee and gave me the opportunity to represent the country. Though I had to wait a while before I got a chance in the playing 11, I am proud I got my cap from none other than Sachin Tendulkar," he added. "While announcing my retirement from first-class cricket, I would like to thank all those who helped me in my career. I am quitting with a wealth of pleasant memories. I would like to wish the Indian team the very best in the forthcoming World cup. Last, but not the least I thank my mom, dad and my family for their support," he signed off.
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Tags: cricket, bangalore, david johnson, indian medium pacer, game, young cricketer, swastic union cricket club, local league, brijesh patel, big personality, early lessons, advice, league matches, g r vishwanath, recognised talent, chairman, selection committee, represent country, cap, sachin tendulkar.