THE whole English batting line-up is running scared of Mitchell Johnson, but a British TV host reckons he could handle the Aussie firebrand.

CNN talk show host Piers Morgan took to Twitter this morning, saying he'd "love" to face Johnson's bowling and "wouldn't back away".

But as other Twitter users called for Channel Nine to arrange a date in the nets, commentator Shane Warne claimed Morgan was "all talk".

It all started when Morgan settled in for Day Four of the Adelaide Test by telling the English batsmen to "grow a pair".

Right England, getting slightly bored of this collective scaredy-cat act. Can you please all grow a pair today? Thanks. #Ashes — Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) December 7, 2013

Some other cricket-watchers doubted whether Morgan, who has never played the sport at a high level, was qualified to make that criticism.

One of them told Morgan he should face the pace of Mitchell Johnson himself, and the TV host didn't back down.

You see, Morgan has batted against speeds above 140km before. In the nets. So he's definitely prepared to face one of the fastest and most intimidating bowlers in the world.

I've faced 90mph regularly in my net from a bowling machine. Never backed away. That's what helmets and pads are for. #Ashes — Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) December 7, 2013

Asked how many Tests he has played by one cheeky cricket fan, Morgan kept the bravado going.

Not as many as I should have > RT @simonjfrazer @piersmorgan how many tests have you played again, Piers? — Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) December 8, 2013

Then the situation escalated. Channel Nine noticed the developing stoush, and its TV commentators suggested the date with Johnson was a good idea.

Former Australian players Mike Hussey and Shane Warne dusted off their sledging skills.

Any time > RT @Karen3697 @piersmorgan ch9 commentators have challenged @piersmorgan to face Johnson himself then have a go at Cook. — Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) December 8, 2013

Warne was particularly harsh on Morgan.

"He's all talk mate," Warne said. "There's absolutely no way that he'll get in the nets."

To his credit, the plucky Pom still didn't back away. He even started a cocky hashtag, "#MonsoonMorgan".

Oh, I've got the courage alright @warne888 - get down the nets in Melbourne yourself, and I'll hammer you too. #MonsoonMorgan @Channel9 — Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) December 8, 2013

"I'm more than happy to do it but I'm not sure you'd be able to face me after the quicks are finished with you," Warnie said. "If you're still standing, I might be able to roll one down to you."

Meanwhile, former Australian fast bowler Brett Lee issued Morgan a formal challenge to face him in the nets at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, and Morgan accepted.

So @BrettLee_58 has just issued me with a formal challenge to face him in the @MCG nets. I've accepted. Game on. @Channel9 — Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) December 8, 2013

We are setting it up for the Boxing Day Test! @piersmorgan has accepted my challenge to face me in the nets @wwos9 stay tuned for details — Brett Lee (@BrettLee_58) December 8, 2013

Tell you what @BrettLee_58 - bring Thommo & Lilllee out of retirement too. You'll need a bit of help. #MonsoonMorgan — Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) December 8, 2013

The cocky Brit won't be facing Mitchell Johnson then, but Brett Lee was just as quick in his day. We think he could do some damage.

Keep the banter going on Twitter: Piers Morgan | Brett Lee | Sam Clench | newscomauHQ

News_Image_File: Yes Piers, you could definitely handle this guy.

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