Relaxed Mitch keeping BBL options open

Mitchell Johnson is looking forward to taking a more relaxed approach to the Indian Premier League this year, while the retired Test quick has also confirmed he will explore his KFC Big Bash League options next summer.

Johnson, who retired from international cricket in November and was given a lap of honour at the WACA Ground during Tuesday's one-day international, opted to spend this summer resting his body and spending time with his family rather than signing on for BBL|05.

However, it was something the fast bowler says he will consider for BBL|06.

"It was a thought this year as well, but I'll definitely think about it next year," Johnson told cricket.com.au.

"I want to get through the IPL first and enjoy that. That's how I want to get through life now, just enjoy each moment.

Watch: Johnson's emotional lap of honour

"I'll enjoy the IPL and then I'll look forward to possibly playing in the Big Bash.

"I haven’t played in it yet but all my friends are raving about it. It's been really exciting and I think there's still something there for me if I want to get out there and do the work."

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Johnson's adopted hometown club, the Perth Scorchers, looms as an ideal destination. In November, WACA chief Christina Matthews said the Scorchers would be interested in welcoming the fast bowler.

But with the IPL to start in April, the 34-year-old will first focus on his fourth season with Kings XI Punjab.

"The body's feeling pretty good, I had about six or seven weeks of doing nothing but the body started getting a bit sore so I started training again," he said.

"I'm really just focused on family stuff still and I'm enjoying that, but it's getting closer to the time when I'll need to start think about cricket stuff and get motivated for that.

"I think this time around it'll be a really fun experience for me."

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In 2015, Johnson's time in the IPL was squeezed between a busy home summer that included four Tests, an ODI Tri-Series and the World Cup, before he immediately headed off for Australia's tour of the Caribbean and the Ashes.

"Last year it was quite different, I went straight from the World Cup into the IPL and straight to the Windies after that," he said.

"(This time) I'll be refreshed and ready to go. I think I'll really enjoy it and make the most of it and hopefully do a bit of coaching to help out the young guys."

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Having watched yesterday's ODI from the comforts of the ABC Grandstand commentary box, Johnson said he was still happy with his decision to end his international career.

"It's a different feeling being at the ground than watching on TV,” he said.

"I watched some of the Test series and didn't have that urge, but I got here this morning and as soon as the first ball was bowled I started to get the adrenaline rush again.

"It was hard at first, but I know I've made the right decision."