Australian speedster Mitchell Johnson called time on his international and first-class career at the end of the fourth day’s play in the second Australia-New Zealand Test match at Perth on Tuesday. With 311 wickets in 73 Tests, Johnson is the fourth-highest wicket-taker for Australia, behind only Shane Warne (708), Glenn McGrath (563) and Dennis Lillee (355). "I feel now is the best time to say goodbye," said Johnson in a statement. "It's been an incredible ride. But the ride has to come to an end at some point and to do so here at the WACA is very special."

With his handlebar moustache, Johnson was a throwback to pace bowlers of yore, vicious and snarling. His slingy action caused problems for batsmen throughout his career, none more so for England. After being mocked for being a spent force, Johnson roared back in the 2013-14 Ashes in Australia, picking up 37 wickets to spearhead Australia’s 5-0 sweep.

However, Johnson’s form dipped recently, with disappointing returns in the 2015 Ashes and then recording figures of 1-157 in the Perth Test. His decision to step away from the game follows the retirements of compatriots Michael Clarke, Brad Haddin, Ryan Harris, Chris Rogers and Shane Watson, who all quit after the recent Ashes series against England.