Fiery Johnson hands Scorchers semi-final victory over Stars

Former Australian pacer claimed three wickets as hosts registered comfortable seven wicket win over visitors

Former Australian pacer Mitchell Johnson produced a magical spell of fast-bowling as Perth Scorchers defeated Melbourne Stars by seven wickets at WACA, Perth on Tuesday to book their place in the final of the Big Bash League.

After opting to bowl first, Scorchers were off to a brilliant start as World Cup winner Johnson, who retired from international cricket more than a year ago, rocked the visitors with three early wickets. They could never recover and managed just 136 runs for the loss eight wickets in their allotted 20 overs.

Wicketkeeper batsman Seb Gotch finished the innings with the top score of 48 off 47 balls, which included three fours and three sixes, and was well supported by captain David Hussey, who scored 26 off 20 balls.

Chasing 137 to win, the hosts never looked in any sort of trouble and achieved the target with seven wickets in hand in the 17^th over.

Left-handed batsman Shaun Marsh finished the innings with the highest score of 56 not out off 44 balls which included eight fours, and he was well supported by opener Sam Whiteman (31 off 26) and Englishman Ian Bell (26 off 15 not out).

For Stars, pacer Daniel Worrall, all-rounders Evan Gublis and Marcus Stoinis claimed a wicket each.

Johnson, for his outstanding bowling performance, was awarded the man of the match.