OUCH! Mitchell Johnson taunts Virat Kohli ahead of India-Australia World Twenty20 showdown

New Delhi: Mitchell Johnson may have retired from international cricket, but the former fast bowler still loves to get under the skin of opposition batsmen.

India's superstar batsman Virat Kohli was once again the target, as Johnson took several potshots at him.

On Saturday, the Delhi batsman told reporters that on-field tussles against the Aussies had always motivated him to do better.

"Debate on the field or not, it doesn’t really matter with me," Kohli said.

"I’m pretty sure of the plans I take into the middle but if I get into a little bit (of debate) with anyone, and if I have to take a certain stand, that doesn’t necessarily put me off my game.

"If anything, that motivates me more," he further added.

Mitch reacted to this report in his inimitable style. Taking to social micro-blogging site Twitter, he said Kohli failed to perform when it really mattered in the 50-over World Cup semi-final last year.

Love it!! Went missing in WC semi last yr when it really counts https://t.co/ZwxkjCMEPB — Mitchell Johnson (@MitchJohnson398) March 26, 2016

The batsman's supporters didn't take kindly to his remark and went on to attack the former left-armer.

Not one to back off, Mitch infuriated them further by not including Kohli in his list of top five batsmen in world cricket.

Top 5 batters Dhoni , AB, Smith, Root & Williamson — Mitchell Johnson (@MitchJohnson398) March 26, 2016

When asked why he hadn't included Kohli or Amla in that list, Johnson had this to say..

@HaqparastPak how could I forget Amla #class — Mitchell Johnson (@MitchJohnson398) March 26, 2016

Kohli has been in tremendous form of late and India's batting department will once again rely on him to come good against Steve Smith's side.

Indian fans will hope that Kohli has taken note of Johnson's comments and await a response with the bat from their talisman.