- Former India fast bowler David Johnson tragically passed away on Thursday after falling from the balcony of his fourth-floor apartment in Bengaluru.
- According to police statements, there were no eyewitnesses to the incident, and neither was there any suicide note found at the scene.
- Johnson had been facing health challenges and was admitted to St Philomena’s Hospital recently due to acute stomach pain.
- Johnson had a notable career in domestic cricket, claiming 125 First-Class wickets and 41 List A scalps across 33 matches.
- One of his standout performances included a remarkable 10-wicket haul (10 for 152) against Kerala in the Ranji Trophy.
- He played alongside cricketing legends like Anil Kumble, Javagal Srinath, and Venkatesh Prasad in the formidable Karnataka bowling line-up of his time.
- Legendary leg-spinner Anil Kumble and BCCI secretary Jay Shah, among others, conveyed their condolences on social media.
Former India fast bowler David Johnson tragically passed away on Thursday after falling from the balcony of his fourth-floor apartment in Bengaluru. The incident has prompted an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding his death, with authorities considering whether it was a case of suicide.
Johnson, aged 52, who had represented India in two Tests, reportedly fell from his residence in Kanaka Sri Layout in Kothanur. The local police have filed an unnatural death report (UDR) and transferred his body to Ambedkar Medical College Hospital for postmortem examination.
According to police statements, there were no eyewitnesses to the incident, and neither was there any suicide note found at the scene. Despite initial speculation, Johnson’s family members have not raised any suspicions about foul play, indicating that it was a tragic accident.
Johnson had been facing health challenges and was admitted to St Philomena’s Hospital recently due to acute stomach pain. Additionally, he had been attending a de-addiction center in Bengaluru, as disclosed by a senior police official investigating the case.
A Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) official confirmed that Johnson was rushed to the hospital after the fall but was declared dead upon arrival. Known for his pace and slightly slingy action, Johnson had a notable career in domestic cricket, claiming 125 First-Class wickets and 41 List A scalps across 33 matches.
One of his standout performances included a remarkable 10-wicket haul (10 for 152) against Kerala in the Ranji Trophy, which earned him recognition at the national level. He played alongside cricketing legends like Anil Kumble, Javagal Srinath, and Venkatesh Prasad in the formidable Karnataka bowling line-up of his time.
Dodda Ganesh, a former India pacer and Johnson’s long-time friend, expressed shock and sorrow over his sudden demise. “We have played together since our tennis cricket days for Jai Karnataka club,” Ganesh reminisced. “Later, we represented Karnataka and India together. The Karnataka bowling attack of our era was the backbone of the Indian team.”
Legendary leg-spinner Anil Kumble and BCCI secretary Jay Shah, among others, conveyed their condolences on social media, acknowledging Johnson’s contributions to Indian cricket. Former India opener Gautam Gambhir also shared his condolences, describing Johnson’s passing as a deeply saddening loss.
Johnson’s life post-retirement saw him navigating financial challenges despite his passion for cricket and interest in horse racing. He faced periods of financial instability and had to undertake odd jobs to sustain himself. However, his return to the cricketing fold, facilitated by former India player and KSCA secretary Brijesh Patel, provided him opportunities in the Karnataka Premier League (now KSCA Maharaja Trophy T20) and as a BCCI match official.
Despite a brief international career that concluded after just two Tests, Johnson left a lasting impression by dismissing renowned batsmen such as Michael Slater, Herschelle Gibbs, and Brian McMillan. His cricketing journey was marked by resilience and dedication to the sport, making him a cherished figure in the cricketing community.
As investigations into his tragic demise continue, David Johnson’s contributions to cricket and the memories he created on and off the field will be fondly remembered by fans, colleagues, and the cricket fraternity at large.
(With inputs from agencies)
