WA coach Mickey Arthur sheepishly admits tearaway paceman Mitchell Johnson is a "little way off" his best just 17 days out from the first Ashes Test at the Gabba.
Johnson has struggled for some time to recapture the form which saw him named the ICC Cricketer of the Year for 2009.
At his destructive best, Johnson spearheaded Australia to an unlikely series victory in South Africa in early 2009 before enduring a horror form slump that began during last year’s Ashes tour.
“I guess by his own admission he probably has been a little bit inconsistent of late,” Arthur said.
“I thought he bowled really well in India. I thought he prepared well and had definite plans for every Indian player. He went over there and executed.
The left-armer struggled to find any rhythm in last year’s Ashes series, claiming 20 wickets at 32.55 in the five Tests.
During his great summer of 2008/09, Johnson grabbed 47 wickets at 21.15 in just eight Tests against South Africa and New Zealand.
“I think it is fair to say he is a little bit hot and cold at the moment,” Arthur said.
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