Ricky Ponting Praises Mitchell Johnson's Performance, Says He's Set Up the Series Nicely

Australian cricket captain Ricky Ponting believes that left-arm fast bowler Mitchell Johnson's devastating return to form has set up the remaining part of the Ashes series nicely. Johnson's impressive performance with nine wickets in Perth will have a significant impact on the rest of the series. Ponting praised Johnson's spell, saying it was one of the all-time great Ashes spells. The skipper also credited Johnson's ability to swing the ball as a key factor in his success.

Key Takeaways:

  • Ricky Ponting believes Mitchell Johnson's performance has set up the remaining part of the Ashes series nicely.
  • Johnson took nine wickets in Perth, a devastating return to form that will affect the rest of the series.
  • Ponting praised Johnson's spell, calling it one of the all-time great Ashes spells.
  • Johnson's ability to swing the ball, particularly with the favourable breeze at the WACA Ground, was a key factor in his success.
  • England captain Andrew Strauss admitted the sudden return of Johnson's ability to swing the ball surprised him and his teammates.
  • National selector Greg Chappell praised Ponting's confidence in pushing for Johnson's recall after his ommission.

Statistics:

  • Johnson took 9 wickets in Perth.
  • Johnson's return to form has set up the remaining part of the Ashes series nicely.
  • Ponting credited Johnson's spell as one of the all-time great Ashes spells.
  • The favourable breeze at the WACA Ground made it easier for Johnson to swing the ball.

Sources:

  • The Age
  • ANI