Johnson admits to have 'surprised himself' with 'blistering' pace in England

Australian bowler Mitchell Johnson has said that he has surprised himself with his recent blistering pace, which he puts down to a longer run-up and improved rhythm.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, the 31-year-old is hopeful the fierce speed and movement he's found during the limited overs series against England leads to an Ashes call up.

After Wednesday's washed out one-dayer at Edgbaston, wicketkeeper Matthew Wade noted Johnson was stinging his gloves at a level comparable to James Pattinson, the report said.

Johnson has picked up the pace while simultaneously working on accuracy, the report added.

The bowler said that being a little bit taller, and being a bit stronger through his legs had helped his consistency.

Johnson had two months at home to freshen up after the Champions Trophy and spent time in the gym working on his leg strength, the report further said.

He said that he felt like he was getting better and better each day, adding that he was really happy at where he was at the moment.