Express left-hander Mitchell Johnson retired from international cricket on the final day of the second Test against New Zealand at the WACA Ground, ending his 73 match career.
His decision follows the retirement of reliable right-armer Ryan Harris in July, due to a knee problem.
Between them the pair managed 424 Test wickets, with Johnson claiming 311 to be fourth on the list of Australian wicket-takers and Harris, a late-comer to test cricket, picking up 113.
Taylor said Johnson deserved to be rated in the very top echelon of Australian fast bowlers and said his retirement would compound the loss of Harris, who was clearly missed during the Ashes loss in England.
"His partnership with Ryan Harris is statistically one of the best of all-time, and they were a great combination.
"When you think about it, Australian cricket has lost a great partnership."
Taylor said he felt like Johnson's form had been deteriorating since the latter stages of this year's Ashes pitches.
"Doing what he does is tough on the body," he said.
"I saw the writing on the wall towards the end of the Ashes series, the wickets towards the end of the series didn't suit him and he wasn't at the best.
"Once you heard his comments before this match you felt he was half-way out the door."
He said his favourite Johnson memory was a spell in Adelaide in 2003 where he took five wickets in quick succession and removed England's captain Alastair Cook.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
