Johnson in the mix for Aussies

Australia's new bowling coach Allister de Winter says Mitchell Johnson remains in the mix for a place in their Test side.

Johnson has been in the wilderness, in terms of Test cricket, in recent months after a spell of form that could best be described as inconsistent.

The left-armer was once regarded as one of the best bowlers in the world but his accuracy deserted him to the point he had become a laughing stock, especially among supporters of Australia's chief rivals England.

But de Winter says Johnson's form in the Sheffield Shield has started to show signs of returning and he is not closing the door on bringing him back into the Australia fold, possibly for the Test series with South Africa next month.

"He's probably still in the mix," de Winter said. "I think he's started the season really well in terms of Sheffield Shield cricket.

"He bowled very well in our tour to Dubai in the one-day tournament.

"He's in a really good headspace. He's really fit and he's bowling as well as he has for quite a long time.

"It's great to have him back in the mix and it gives us a great choice when it comes to selection, particularly with his left-arm bowling."