David Johnson Passes Away At 52: Ex-India Pacer Found Dead Outside Apartment, Suicide Suspected

David Johnson Passes Away At 52: The ex-India pacer was found dead outside his apartment, a police official confirmed.

David Johnson, the former India fast bowler, has passed away at 52. Known for his sheer pace, Johnson played for Karnataka and made his way into the senior national cricket team on the back of his impressive performances for Karnataka in the domestic circuit. In the 1995-96 Ranji Trophy season, Johnson recorded figures of 10/152 against Kerala which played a key role in him breaking into the Indian side.

Johnson made his Test debut in the India vs Australia Delhi Test in 1996. Johnson got a place in the side after an injury to Javagal Srinath prevented him from being available for the match. Johnson bowled along with his Karnataka teammate Venkatesh Prasad. David Johnson was also included in India's tour of South Africa and featured in the series opener.

"It is believed that 52-year-old David Jude Johnson fell from his Apartment in Kanaka Sri Layout in Kothanur giving rise to the suspicion of suicide," a police official said, as quoted in a PTI report.

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Overall, Johnson played two Test matches and picked up 3 wickets in 4 innings. His overall first-class cricket saw him pick up 125 wickets in 39 matches, at an average of 28.63 and a strike rate of 47.4. Even though he was a lower order batter for much of his first-class career, he has a hundred against his name in days cricket. In 33 List A games, Johnson finished with 41 wickets. His last competitive game came in 2015 where he featured in the Karnataka Premier League.

Anil Kumble, Jay Shah Among Members From Indian Cricket Fraternity To Offer Condolences

Meanwhile, members of the Indian cricket fraternity have offered condolences after Johnson's passing. Former India captain and ex-Karnataka veteran Anil Kumble wrote: "Saddened to hear the passing of my cricketing colleague David Johnson. Heartfelt condolences to his family. Gone too soon "Benny”" he posted 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," BCCI Secretary Jay Shah wrote.