Johnson targets final hurrah

All-rounder happy to do his bit with the bat after promotion in Sydney

Last updated: 4th February 2011  

I really enjoy batting at four and I hope I get more opportunities

Mitchell Johnson
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Mitchell Johnson insists Australia's much-changed side will not be easing up in the seventh and final match of the one-day series against England.

The hosts already lead 5-1 but are without rested duo Michael Clarke and all-rounder Shane Watson at the WACA on Sunday, live on Sky Sports.

All-rounder Steve Smith and spinner Xavier Doherty will also miss the clash in Perth after suffering injuries, while Ricky Ponting and Nathan Hauritz are long-term absentees.

Despite their depleted ranks Australia are still determined to finish their home summer with a flourish according to Johnson, who starred with the bat in the two-wicket win in Sydney on Wednesday.

Balance

"I think we've still got a well balanced one-day side going into this last game," he said.

"We're taking a lot of confidence into it, and also the World Cup. We are still the number one one-day side in the world and hopefully we can win this series 6-1."

Although the seven-match series has provided the hosts with the perfect preparation ahead of the World Cup, Johnson feels five games would have been enough off the back of a tough Ashes battle.

"It's a very long summer. Their squad came over fairly early and they've been over for a long time," he said.

"I guess they try and work on playing these games and getting the right balance. The Ashes is always going to be a five-match series - you're never going to change that.

"Maybe they could cut down the one-day stuff, I'm not sure. Personally, I think the seven-match series is a touch too long, though leading into the World Cup it's probably perfect for us.

Johnson's primary job is with the ball but his talents with the bat make him a dangerous weapon for Australia in 50-over cricket, wherever he's deployed.

The left-hander was sent in at No.4 at the SCG and proceeded to make 57 from 59 balls as the home side chased down a record target of 334.

Promotion

He hopes his efforts will lead to further chances up the order, particularly with the upcoming World Cup taking part on the sub-continent.

"Michael and Cameron talked about it that night, about me coming in at four, keeping that momentum going and going after (Michael) Yardy with the short boundary," Johnson added.

"I couldn't quite get after him because he bowled pretty well, but I stayed out there and built a pretty good partnership with Fergie (Callum Ferguson) and then a little bit of a partnership with Michael (Clarke) that got him going.

"I really enjoy batting at four and I hope I get more opportunities."

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