Behind the cult image and fearsome pace bowling is an unforgettable story of perseverance and persistence.

Mitchell Johnson is a once-in-a-generation Australian cricketer - a devastating left-arm fast bowler who became a household name following his epic performance in the 2013-14 Ashes series and the subsequent Test series against South Africa.

How a shy 17-year-old champion tennis player plucked from obscurity and anointed by Dennis Lillee went on to become one of Australia's most exceptional cricketers is the stuff of sporting fairytales. Fast tracked into the Australian Under-19 side, Mitchell made his Test debut in 2007. Within 12 months he had become the world's most-feared bowler. But by 2011 the promise of greatness was unravelling, with his form fading and confidence waning.

Left questioning his ability and future, Mitchell was ready to quit cricket but resolved to give it one more shot. With the support from his family and the help of his old mentor and a war hero, he channelled his strength and renewed confidence back into his bowling.

Over two blistering seasons, at the age of 32, finally the world was able to see the natural talent Lillee had recognised all those years ago. Mitchell Johnson's comeback is one of cricket's most inspiring stories of the power of resilience.