IPL 2015: Mitchell Johnson says he is 'really impressed' with 2 young Indian pacers

Mumbai, April 13: Australian paceman Mitchell Johnson has said he is "really impressed" with two young Indian fast bowlers who are currently playing with him at Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) in IPL 8.

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Johnson, who is part of KXIP, has praised Sandeep Sharma and Anureet Singh. Sandeep was outstanding in last night's game against Mumbai Indians (MI) which KXIP won by 18 runs.

Sandeep, the 21-year-old right-arm bowler, had figures of 1/12 in 4 overs with one maiden. He dismissed MI captain Rohit Sharma for a duck. Anureet, 27, another right-armer, took 2/41 in 4 overs.

Speaking to IPL's official website after the victory at Wankhede Stadium, Johnson said the duo trains hard and gives 100 per cent all the time.

"I am really impressed with Sandeep and Anureet. They train really hard and always give it a hundred per cent. You can never doubt those guys when it comes to giving it their all," Johnson told IPLT20.com.

"They are just getting more and more experienced and the more games they play the better for them. It is really good to see them bowl the way they bowled against a quality side and going about what they needed to do as part of a bowling unit. Keeping things really simple has worked for them. I love seeing young guys like that who train really hard and it gives me a buzz," he added.

More pace in this IPL

The Australian left-arm fast bowler said they both had gained a bit of pace this year compared to the last IPL. "It looks like they both have definitely gained a bit of pace than last year. They swung the ball last year as well and there is no difference there, but they have definitely added some more pace to their bowling.

"The wickets are definitely helping them. I would even trust them when it comes to bowling on a wicket where there isn't going to be much of swing and movement. I still think they will be able to put the ball in the right areas and be able to hit the wicket hard. It is truly exciting and nice to see their progress."

Both Sandeep and Anureet have sought the advice of Johnson and the Australian has obliged. "The guys come up to me while training and they like to listen when I am talking. They are not necessarily going to take in everything.

"I remember as a young guy, when I was taking things that might work and not going to work. It is about finding that balance. As a senior player, I like to lead by example on and off the field. I don't necessarily talk a lot but when I do it is pretty important I guess," Johnson said.

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