Australian bowler Mitchell Johnson has reportedly been inspired by an Australian war hero in his quest to toughen up mentally after his career met a roadblock due to a serious toe injury and poor form.
Ben Roberts-Smith, who was awarded Australia's highest military honour in 2011 for his bravery during an operation in Afghanistan in 2010 when he drew fire away from his unit, had lunched last year with Johnson, which helped the player with the 'mental side of things'.
According to The Age, the left-arm pace bowler said that it was good for him to hear the experiences of the Victoria Cross recipient and apply it to better his own case, adding that the former corporal is a fit and strong man and had inspired him in his toughening up.
Johnson's newfound mental strength will be put to the test in the winter Ashes series, the report added.