Aaron Johnson shone as Canada’s top batter in Match 22 of the T20 World Cup 2024 against Pakistan on Tuesday, June 11, in New York. He played a pivotal innings, scoring 52 off 44 balls, with four fours and four sixes, to lift the struggling Canadian side to a respectable total of 106/7.
Despite his commendable effort, Johnson’s innings was cut short by Naseem Shah, who outsmarted him with a deceptive delivery. However, Johnson, at 33, made history by becoming the first batter in the tournament to notch up a half-century on the challenging New York pitch.
Trending Now: Since making his debut for Canada in 2022, Johnson has accumulated 1,000 runs in international cricket, boasting an impressive average of over 45 in T20Is. He entered this tournament as the leading run-scorer, having amassed 124 runs in the bilateral series against the USA.
Here are five intriguing facts about this standout Canadian opener:
1. From Jamaican Roots to Canadian Heights
Born and raised on a farm in Jamaica, Aaron Johnson’s cricketing journey began with family matches. His talent flourished in club cricket, leading him to the reserves of the Jamaican first-class team. Unfortunately, fierce competition from established openers like Chadwick Walton and John Campbell prevented him from breaking into the team.
2. A Bold Move to Canada in 2019
Seeking greater opportunities, Johnson relocated to Canada in 2019. He secured a scholarship from Keyano College and gained Canadian citizenship after three and a half years. Before this, he showcased his skills at the Shepherd’s Bush Cricket Club in the Middlesex League and in Canadian club cricket with the British Columbia team.
3. Canada’s First Multiple T20I Centurion
Johnson made a spectacular entrance into T20Is during the Desert Cup against Bahrain in 2022. In just his second match, he scored an unbeaten 109 off 69 balls against Oman. He followed this with another century in October 2023, smashing 121* off 59 balls against Panama.
4. Instrumental in Canada’s T20 World Cup Qualification
Johnson was a key player in the 2023 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Americas Qualifier. He emerged as the top scorer for Canada, amassing 187 runs in five innings with an average of 46.75 and a strike rate of 185.14. His standout performances included a 121*-run knock and a quick-fire 47 off 19 against the Cayman Islands, propelling Canada to the regional final and securing their spot in the T20 World Cup 2024.
5. A Friendship with Colin de Grandhomme
During his stint with the Brampton Wolves in the GT20 Canada 2023, Johnson formed a close bond with former New Zealand all-rounder Colin de Grandhomme. Johnson praised de Grandhomme’s humility and valued the advice and experience shared by the seasoned cricketer, describing him as “probably the most humble cricketer I have seen.”
Aaron Johnson’s journey from Jamaican fields to international cricket stardom in Canada is a testament to his resilience and talent. Keep an eye on this prolific batter as he continues to make his mark in the T20 World Cup 2024.
