Johnson ready for Ashes recall

With just two Tests to his name this year, Johnson had fallen well off the radar among Australia's strong fast bowling corps.

But injuries to James Pattinson, Jackson Bird, Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins have opened the door - and the 31-year-old is doing everything possible to charge through it.

QUICK SINGLE: Pattinson ahead of schedule

After a positive return in Australia's one-day series victory in England following the Ashes, Johnson is showing off his remodelled action in India where his road to redemption began.

If it's an Ashes audition, he's certainly hitting the right notes - bowling express pace and intimidating the Indian batsmen on unhelpful wickets.

His 4-46 in the thrilling victory in Mohali on Saturday showcased everything that made Johnson the spearhead of the Australian attack four years ago.

But more than anything, after spending some time in the selection wilderness, Johnson feels mentally and physically ready for a recall.

"I've got a lot to offer. I'm definitely ready," Johnson told AAP.

"I feel like I'm bowling at my best if not close to my best.

"There's a lot of guys there that are performing well at that level, but I'd like to get back into the Test team and I think that I'm ready.

"I've always said that is the goal of mine. I love playing Test cricket, it's a huge challenge."

The fact that this summer is the return Ashes series is an even bigger carrot dangling in front of Johnson.

England's vocal supporter group the Barmy Army took delight in Johnson's wayward bowling at Lord's in 2009 - and let him know about it.

"Obviously it's an Ashes series coming up as well ... I'd like to win one of those," he added.

Two big names in Johnson's corner are Australia's greatest wicket-taking fast bowler Glenn McGrath and recently retired batsman Michael Hussey.

The pair have both called for the slingy left-armer's inclusion for the opening Test at the Gabba.

"To have those guys say that and be backing me all the way definitely helps. It helps my confidence," Johnson said.

"They know what it's like, they've been through it and they know my game as well.

"They're very respected guys."

Johnson has made minor tweaks to his action, including lengthening his runup and straightening his wrist to present the seam better.

These changes started when recovering from an ankle injury last year, but were refined during this year's Indian Premier League with the help of his Mumbai Indians teammate Sachin Tendulkar.

"Sachin definitely had advice, on and off the field," Johnson explains.

"On the field he was always at mid-on or mid-off and would always offer advice.

"You always listen when he speaks and it's good to have someone's experience like that."