MITCHELL JOHNSON: The meeting with Cooper Connolly that convinced me he would get the best out of himself

Cap 471.

That was the text Cooper Connolly sent to his parents this week to tell them he would be making his Test debut.

Regardless of whether he plays just one Test match or another 100, it’s a number that will be etched in his memory forever.

I believe he has the potential to play many more, and that’s not merely a matter of local bias; it’s a reflection of what I’ve observed from the 21-year-old both on and off the field.

I first bumped into Cooper a couple of years ago at the WA cricket awards night and said a brief hello.

A year or so passed, and I ran into him again, this time at Seamer Indoor Sports Centre in Balcatta. We didn’t play against each other, but I had the chance to watch him bowl his offies and really throw himself around the nets, knocking down stumps with enthusiasm and a noticeable joy on his face.

I’d heard about Cooper through a good mate of mine from the WACA, who had been really impressed with him. He believed back then that Connolly would play for Australia one day.

While he may not have thought it would happen by the age of 21, it was clear that he saw this young man as part of Australia’s cricketing future.

It’s exciting to witness his growth and potential. Last year, I had the pleasure of being properly introduced to him back at the indoor cricket centre by a friend who is one of the owners.

I had gone in one night to sign something for my mate related to a gig I was doing and as I walked into his office, there was Cooper standing there - ball in hand, flicking it around as bowlers often do.

We started chatting. It turns out Cooper was keen to meet me and have a discussion, which I absolutely loved. For me, this kind of connection is what it’s all about — giving back to the game.

As we talked, he asked questions, and I found myself reflecting on all the experiences and knowledge I gained from playing cricket for over two decades.

It was nostalgic, reminding me of my own days as a young kid asking seasoned players for advice, soaking in everything I could.

What struck me about Cooper was his respectfulness during our conversation, even when I found myself rambling. He had a relaxed demeanour, and it was clear he was still riding the high from his impressive performance in the BBL final, two summers ago now.

Overall, my impressions of him matched what my friend from the WACA had been saying all along: he’s a great kid with plenty of talent, down to earth, and eager to squeeze the best out of his game. He approaches cricket simply and effectively, managing to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on himself while just trying to live the dream.

Connolly has now been recognised as a future Australian cricket star, joining the ranks of other promising talents from across the country with a Test debut this week after just four first-class matches.

Cooper’s journey took a turn when he was picked for the Aussie T20 setup. Unfortunately, he broke his thumb, but his quick recovery allowed him to bounce back and make a significant impact for a struggling Perth Scorchers team this season.

I was genuinely impressed by how he navigated the challenges throughout the season. He played with maturity, understanding when to build a partnership and when to go for quick runs, rather than just smashing it from the outset.

His composure on the field was evident, and I believe that was a big part of what caught the national selectors’ attention, leading to his inclusion on the Test tour to Sri Lanka. Plus, his ability to bowl handy off-spinners certainly worked in his favour, giving him an edge over others.

It’s clear that Connolly is not only talented but possesses the cricketing smarts to adapt to different situations, which bodes well for his future.

If I had the chance to sit down with him again now he’s earned a baggy green, I would tell him how excited I am of his achievement and the incredible journey he’s been on but that it’s only the beginning and this is when the hard work starts.

I’d emphasise the importance of patience — something I may have already mentioned to him. There’s truly no rush; this is his unique path in cricket, filled with ups and downs. I’d encourage him to soak up every moment of this experience and to genuinely enjoy the ride.

It’s easy to get caught up in pressure, but remembering what got him to this point is key. He’s about to face some of the best cricketers in the world, and while there will be challenges and failures along the way, there will also be triumphs and milestones.

I’d remind him to keep that infectious smile and sense of happiness from the indoor cricket centre alive, to be true to himself, and to embrace every opportunity to give it his all.

This journey is not just about the results, it’s about the love of the game and the experiences he’ll gather along the way. Keep having fun and pushing boundaries, Cooper. This is just the beginning!