Former Australia cricketer Mark Waugh has backed the decision to drop veteran spinner Nathan Lyon for pacer Scott Boland in the ongoing second Test against South Africa. This is the third time in the recent past that Lyon, Australia's premier off-spinner with more than 550 wickets to his name, has been dropped from the playing XI. His replacement, Boland, justified his inclusion by taking two wickets off successive balls on Day 1 (Oct 18) of the second Test to leave South Africa reeling at 20/2 on the rain-shortened day. On Day 2 (Oct 19) of the Test, Boland took two more wickets as South Africa was left at 97/5 at stumps on another rain-shortened day.<h2>Mark Waugh Backs Dropping Lyon for Boland</h2>"It’s tough on Lyon, but it’s a fair call," Waugh said on Fox Cricket. "Would South Africa rather face Nathan Lyon or Scott Boland? They’d say Lyon... if the conditions suit, he (Boland) should be playing," he added.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-test-coach-stephen-fleming-s-priority-is-developing-local-coaches-1792482378414">England Test coach Stephen Fleming's priority is 'developing local coaches'</a>Former Aussie spinner Steve O'Keefe, meanwhile, wasn't happy with the decision, saying: "I hate it. I completely disagree with them not picking a spinner, let alone a spinner with 550 wickets," on the Chin Music podcast.Lyon was previously dropped during the pink-ball Ashes Test for all-rounder Beau Webster and against the West Indies before that, also in a pink-ball Test.<h2>How Are Australia Placed in the World Test Championship (WTC) Cycle?</h2>Australia is currently at the top of the WTC 2025-27 cycle with 81.82 percent points from nine wins in 11 Tests and two losses. After the ongoing series against South Africa, Australia - which won the WTC Final 2021-23 by defeating India in the final - will next play against New Zealand in a four-Test series at home before taking on India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in December-January in India.

Mark Waugh backed dropping Nathan Lyon (550+ wickets) for Scott Boland, who took 4 wickets in the 2nd Test vs South Africa. Steve O'Keefe disagreed. WTC-leading Australia plays NZ next, then India.

Former Australia cricketer Mark Waugh has backed the decision to drop veteran spinner Nathan Lyon for pacer Scott Boland in the ongoing second Test against South Africa. This is the third time in the recent past that Lyon, Australia's premier off-spinner with more than 550 wickets to his name, has been dropped from the playing XI. His replacement, Boland, justified his inclusion by taking two wickets off successive balls on Day 1 (Oct 18) of the second Test to leave South Africa reeling at 20/2 on the rain-shortened day. On Day 2 (Oct 19) of the Test, Boland took two more wickets as South Africa was left at 97/5 at stumps on another rain-shortened day. Mark Waugh Backs Dropping Lyon for Boland "It’s tough on Lyon, but it’s a fair call," Waugh said on Fox Cricket. "Would South Africa rather face Nathan Lyon or Scott Boland? They’d say Lyon... if the conditions suit, he (Boland) should be playing," he added. Also Read - England Test coach Stephen Fleming's priority is 'developing local coaches' Former Aussie spinner Steve O'Keefe, meanwhile, wasn't happy with the decision, saying: "I hate it. I completely disagree with them not picking a spinner, let alone a spinner with 550 wickets," on the Chin Music podcast. Lyon was previously dropped during the pink-ball Ashes Test for all-rounder Beau Webster and against the West Indies before that, also in a pink-ball Test. How Are Australia Placed in the World Test Championship (WTC) Cycle? Australia is currently at the top of the WTC 2025-27 cycle with 81.82 percent points from nine wins in 11 Tests and two losses. After the ongoing series against South Africa, Australia - which won the WTC Final 2021-23 by defeating India in the final - will next play against New Zealand in a four-Test series at home before taking on India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in December-January in India.

Mark Waugh backed dropping Nathan Lyon (550+ wickets) for Scott Boland, who took 4 wickets in the 2nd Test vs South Africa. Steve O'Keefe disagreed. WTC-leading Australia plays NZ next, then India.

AUS vs SA: Ex-Aussie batter Waugh calls dropping Lyon for Scott Boland 'fair call'

Australian off-spinner Nathan Lyon scripted history during the ongoing first Test against South Africa in Durban. Having already entered the top-10 list of highest Test wicket-takers, with 571 wickets and counting, Lyon, who bats right-handed, became the first player ever to complete 1,000 runs and more at No. 10 in Tests. He achieved this rare cricketing feat during Australia’s first innings at Kingsmead, where he scored 27, adding 134 runs for the ninth wicket with centurion Matt Renshaw.&nbsp;Renshaw was Australia’s best batter, completing his highest Test score of 190, hitting 21 fours and a six. Following Mitchell Starc’s dismissal early on day two, Lyon joined Renshaw in the middle, and the pair revived Australia’s innings. While Renshaw scored the bulk of runs, Lyon played second fiddle brilliantly, assisting Renshaw throughout the game-changing partnership.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-sa-1st-test-day-2-renshaw-shines-with-190-as-australia-dominate-south-africa-1791648393296">AUS vs SA 1st Test, Day 2: Renshaw shines with 190 as Australia dominate South Africa</a>&nbsp;Lyon scored five fours in his 92-ball stay at the crease before being trapped in front of the wickets off Marco Jansen. Renshaw was the last wicket to fall on 190, with Australia getting all out on 390.&nbsp;Lyon tops a prestigious list of bowlers—most of whom have retired from international cricket.<h3>Most Runs at No. 10 in Tests –</h3><ul><li>1019 – Nathan Lyon*</li><li>825 - Stuart Broad</li><li>594 - Neil Wagner</li><li>568 - Dale Steyn</li><li>511 - Tim Southee</li><li>496 - Waqar Younis</li><li>470 - Bishan Bedi</li></ul><h3>Renshaw’s 190 puts Australia ahead</h3>Matt Renshaw continued his purple patch into the Test series. Having scored a hundred against Zimbabwe in the ODI series opener last month, Renshaw has worked his way through to the playing XI in the first Test against South Africa.&nbsp;While he was earlier pipped to open alongside Travis Head in the lead-up to the Test series, Renshaw batted at six and delivered his best shot with Australia struggling on the spicy Durban pitch on day one. After the Proteas quicks reduced Australia to 124/6, Renshaw and captain Pat Cummins revived the innings with an 86-run stand for the seventh wicket, before Lyon and Renshaw took the game away from the hosts.&nbsp;South Africa was 27/1 at stumps on day two.

Nathan Lyon created history in Durban by becoming the first player to score 1,000 Test runs at No. 10. Plus, Matt Renshaw's career-best 190 puts Australia on top.

Australian off-spinner Nathan Lyon scripted history during the ongoing first Test against South Africa in Durban. Having already entered the top-10 list of highest Test wicket-takers, with 571 wickets and counting, Lyon, who bats right-handed, became the first player ever to complete 1,000 runs and more at No. 10 in Tests. He achieved this rare cricketing feat during Australia’s first innings at Kingsmead, where he scored 27, adding 134 runs for the ninth wicket with centurion Matt Renshaw. Renshaw was Australia’s best batter, completing his highest Test score of 190, hitting 21 fours and a six. Following Mitchell Starc’s dismissal early on day two, Lyon joined Renshaw in the middle, and the pair revived Australia’s innings. While Renshaw scored the bulk of runs, Lyon played second fiddle brilliantly, assisting Renshaw throughout the game-changing partnership. Also read| AUS vs SA 1st Test, Day 2: Renshaw shines with 190 as Australia dominate South Africa Lyon scored five fours in his 92-ball stay at the crease before being trapped in front of the wickets off Marco Jansen. Renshaw was the last wicket to fall on 190, with Australia getting all out on 390. Lyon tops a prestigious list of bowlers—most of whom have retired from international cricket. Most Runs at No. 10 in Tests – 1019 – Nathan Lyon* 825 - Stuart Broad 594 - Neil Wagner 568 - Dale Steyn 511 - Tim Southee 496 - Waqar Younis 470 - Bishan Bedi Renshaw’s 190 puts Australia ahead Matt Renshaw continued his purple patch into the Test series. Having scored a hundred against Zimbabwe in the ODI series opener last month, Renshaw has worked his way through to the playing XI in the first Test against South Africa. While he was earlier pipped to open alongside Travis Head in the lead-up to the Test series, Renshaw batted at six and delivered his best shot with Australia struggling on the spicy Durban pitch on day one. After the Proteas quicks reduced Australia to 124/6, Renshaw and captain Pat Cummins revived the innings with an 86-run stand for the seventh wicket, before Lyon and Renshaw took the game away from the hosts. South Africa was 27/1 at stumps on day two.

Nathan Lyon created history in Durban by becoming the first player to score 1,000 Test runs at No. 10. Plus, Matt Renshaw's career-best 190 puts Australia on top.

Nathan Lyon completes 1,000 Test runs at No. 10 to script rare cricket feat

Ace Australian quick Mitchell Starc entered the top-10 list of highest Test wicket-takers during the concluded second Test against Bangladesh in Mackay. Alongside veteran off-spinner Nathan Lyon, the pair are now the only active cricketers on the elite list. &nbsp;It doesn't happen often, though, that two amongst the highest Test wicket-takers belong to the same country and are playing together. Pairs including Glenn McGrath and Shane Warne, Anil Kumble and Harbhajan Singh and even James Anderson and Stuart Broad have been part of this elite list, with Starc and Lyon possibly being the last.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-vs-bangladesh-2nd-test-mackay-750-balls-starc-1787466121045">Mackay Test: Australia crush Bangladesh by an innings and 51 runs in second-shortest match Down Under</a> &nbsp;Starc, 36 and Lyon, 38, are two Test veterans of Australian cricket, having picked up 445 and 571 wickets, respectively. While Lyon’s majestic tally places him in sixth place, Starc is currently 10th on the list. The two made their Test debuts in the same year (2011) and have played over 100 Tests each.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, for Lyon to break into the top-five all-time highest wicket-takers in Tests, he must pick 34 more wickets to surpass former England quick Stuart Broad. Starc, however, is far from Courtney Walsh’s tally of 519 Test wickets, and in all probability, would remain the 10th highest Test wicket-taker for some time. &nbsp;Here are four reasons why Test cricket might never see a bowling pair amongst the top-10 wicket-takers in this format playing together –<h3>Workload Management and Early Retirement –</h3>The new-age cricketers have often prioritised lucrative white-ball T20 leagues over Test cricket, with workload management and injuries drastically shortening their long-form careers before they reach top-10 tallies. With so much cricket being played worldwide, and the emergence of franchise cricket, players have been forced to choose less consuming options.<h3>Specialisation over Longevity –</h3>Gone are those days when a team’s premier bowler or a bowling pair used to feature in every cricket match, regardless of the format and deliver for the team unless an injury forced them out. Nowadays, with an increasing number of matches, compounded by franchise cricket, cricket boards, selection committees and team management are left with no options but to pick and play players format-wise. &nbsp;Such factors make it nearly impossible for any modern-day player to play 80+ Tests, usually required to pick 400 or more Test wickets.<h3>Fewer Test Matches -</h3>Not many teams besides the Big Three: India, Australia and England, play many Test series consisting of three or more matches, which further reduces options from other countries despite potential. Countries known for producing world-class bowlers, including South Africa, Pakistan, New Zealand and even the West Indies, now feature in more two-match Test series, also against the Big Three.<h3>The Rare Coincidence of Alignment -</h3>In 149 years of Test cricket history, only three distinct eras involving eight legendary bowlers have played for the same country, at the same time, and still made it to the list of top-10 most Test wicket-takers. Thus, having a world-class pacer in Starc and a premier spinner in Lyon remain fit for over a decade, and complement each other's workloads, is a statistical anomaly in modern cricket.

With Mitchell Starc joining Nathan Lyon in the top 10 all-time Test wicket-takers, explore 4 reasons why cricket may never see another active bowling pair like them. 

Ace Australian quick Mitchell Starc entered the top-10 list of highest Test wicket-takers during the concluded second Test against Bangladesh in Mackay. Alongside veteran off-spinner Nathan Lyon, the pair are now the only active cricketers on the elite list. It doesn't happen often, though, that two amongst the highest Test wicket-takers belong to the same country and are playing together. Pairs including Glenn McGrath and Shane Warne, Anil Kumble and Harbhajan Singh and even James Anderson and Stuart Broad have been part of this elite list, with Starc and Lyon possibly being the last. Also read| Mackay Test: Australia crush Bangladesh by an innings and 51 runs in second-shortest match Down Under Starc, 36 and Lyon, 38, are two Test veterans of Australian cricket, having picked up 445 and 571 wickets, respectively. While Lyon’s majestic tally places him in sixth place, Starc is currently 10th on the list. The two made their Test debuts in the same year (2011) and have played over 100 Tests each. Meanwhile, for Lyon to break into the top-five all-time highest wicket-takers in Tests, he must pick 34 more wickets to surpass former England quick Stuart Broad. Starc, however, is far from Courtney Walsh’s tally of 519 Test wickets, and in all probability, would remain the 10th highest Test wicket-taker for some time. Here are four reasons why Test cricket might never see a bowling pair amongst the top-10 wicket-takers in this format playing together – Workload Management and Early Retirement – The new-age cricketers have often prioritised lucrative white-ball T20 leagues over Test cricket, with workload management and injuries drastically shortening their long-form careers before they reach top-10 tallies. With so much cricket being played worldwide, and the emergence of franchise cricket, players have been forced to choose less consuming options. Specialisation over Longevity – Gone are those days when a team’s premier bowler or a bowling pair used to feature in every cricket match, regardless of the format and deliver for the team unless an injury forced them out. Nowadays, with an increasing number of matches, compounded by franchise cricket, cricket boards, selection committees and team management are left with no options but to pick and play players format-wise. Such factors make it nearly impossible for any modern-day player to play 80+ Tests, usually required to pick 400 or more Test wickets. Fewer Test Matches - Not many teams besides the Big Three: India, Australia and England, play many Test series consisting of three or more matches, which further reduces options from other countries despite potential. Countries known for producing world-class bowlers, including South Africa, Pakistan, New Zealand and even the West Indies, now feature in more two-match Test series, also against the Big Three. The Rare Coincidence of Alignment - In 149 years of Test cricket history, only three distinct eras involving eight legendary bowlers have played for the same country, at the same time, and still made it to the list of top-10 most Test wicket-takers. Thus, having a world-class pacer in Starc and a premier spinner in Lyon remain fit for over a decade, and complement each other's workloads, is a statistical anomaly in modern cricket.

With Mitchell Starc joining Nathan Lyon in the top 10 all-time Test wicket-takers, explore 4 reasons why cricket may never see another active bowling pair like them.&nbsp;

Starc, Lyon are last active top-10 Test bowlers: 4 reasons it won't happen again

From Mitchell Starc to Pat Cummins, here's a look at the top five active bowlers with most wickets in Test cricket. This list also includes Nathan Lyon, Kagiso Rabada and Ravindra Jadeja

From Mitchell Starc to Pat Cummins, here's a look at the top five active bowlers with most wickets in Test cricket. This list also includes Nathan Lyon, Kagiso Rabada and Ravindra Jadeja

Meet top 5 active bowlers with most Test wickets, check who tops list

Australian skipper Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon were on Tuesday ruled out of the fourth Ashes Test against England with the veteran spinner facing surgery and an extended period on the sidelines. Quick bowler Jhye Richardson and spinner Todd Murphy were named as cover in a 15-man squad for the clash starting on Friday at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Australia have already retained the Ashes with eight-wicket wins in Perth and Brisbane and an 82-run victory in Adelaide.&nbsp;"Pat Cummins will miss the match as part of his ongoing management plan," Cricket Australia said, with Adelaide his first Test since July after lower back issues.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-i-don-t-know-says-mccullum-about-staying-on-as-england-coach-in-next-summer-1766413241415">'I don't know,' says McCullum about staying on as England coach in next summer</a>&nbsp;Steve Smith, who captained the team in Cummins' absence during the first two Tests, will lead the team again in Melbourne after missing Adelaide with vertigo symptoms.&nbsp;"Nathan Lyon will have surgery on a torn right hamstring which will sideline him for an extended period," the governing body added.&nbsp;Lyon, 38, damaged his right hamstring saving a boundary on day five in Adelaide fielding and hobbled off after. In Adelaide, he claimed his 564th wicket to move clear of fellow Australian great Glenn McGrath and into sixth on the all-time Test bowling list.&nbsp;Murphy is set to play his first home Test, with his seven previous Tests all overseas. He last played for Australia in Sri Lanka earlier this year.&nbsp;Richardson was included after a four-year Test absence, during which he underwent three shoulder surgeries. Scott Boland and Mitchell Starc are again set to lead the attack after pulling up well from Adelaide, with Michael Neser, Brendan Doggett and Richardson battling to join them.<h3>Australia squad for Boxing Day Test -</h3>Steve Smith (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Steve Smith, who captained the team in Cummins' absence during the first two Tests, will lead the team again in Melbourne after missing Adelaide with vertigo symptoms.

Australian skipper Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon were on Tuesday ruled out of the fourth Ashes Test against England with the veteran spinner facing surgery and an extended period on the sidelines. Quick bowler Jhye Richardson and spinner Todd Murphy were named as cover in a 15-man squad for the clash starting on Friday at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Australia have already retained the Ashes with eight-wicket wins in Perth and Brisbane and an 82-run victory in Adelaide. "Pat Cummins will miss the match as part of his ongoing management plan," Cricket Australia said, with Adelaide his first Test since July after lower back issues. Also read | 'I don't know,' says McCullum about staying on as England coach in next summer Steve Smith, who captained the team in Cummins' absence during the first two Tests, will lead the team again in Melbourne after missing Adelaide with vertigo symptoms. "Nathan Lyon will have surgery on a torn right hamstring which will sideline him for an extended period," the governing body added. Lyon, 38, damaged his right hamstring saving a boundary on day five in Adelaide fielding and hobbled off after. In Adelaide, he claimed his 564th wicket to move clear of fellow Australian great Glenn McGrath and into sixth on the all-time Test bowling list. Murphy is set to play his first home Test, with his seven previous Tests all overseas. He last played for Australia in Sri Lanka earlier this year. Richardson was included after a four-year Test absence, during which he underwent three shoulder surgeries. Scott Boland and Mitchell Starc are again set to lead the attack after pulling up well from Adelaide, with Michael Neser, Brendan Doggett and Richardson battling to join them. Australia squad for Boxing Day Test - Steve Smith (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Steve Smith, who captained the team in Cummins' absence during the first two Tests, will lead the team again in Melbourne after missing Adelaide with vertigo symptoms.

Cummins, Lyon miss out as Australia name squad for Boxing Day Ashes Test

Elated Australia skipper Pat Cummins on Sunday said retaining the Ashes after just three Tests was "hugely satisfying" and vowed no let up in Melbourne while casting doubt on whether he and Nathan Lyon would play. Australia have been dominant all series with their 82-run win in Adelaide coming on the back of eight-wicket thumpings at Perth and Brisbane, securing the famous urn with two Tests still to play.&nbsp;"There was so much hype coming into the series, and you never really know how it will play out," said Cummins. "So winning in three Tests is hugely satisfying for many reasons.&nbsp;"A lot of the chat before the series was about how evenly poised it was going to be, and to win in straight Tests, it doesn't get much better than that."&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-cycle-2025-27-australia-maintain-100-per-cent-record-check-where-team-india-sits-on-points-table-1766298664533">WTC Cycle 2025-27: Australia maintain 100% record; check where Team India sits on points table</a>&nbsp;There are only five days until the fourth Test starts in Melbourne on December 26 with Cummins adamant Australia will not be taking their foot off the gas there or in the final Test in Sydney, beginning January 4.&nbsp;"The goal was to win the Ashes. But you're not going into a Test match not wanting to win, so we'll go to Melbourne and absolutely be desperate to win that one and Sydney," he said. "And if we get 5-0, it's amazing but I can't say that's been spoken about at all. It's always just been about how we're going to navigate our way through to three wins."&nbsp;Australia face going into the fourth Test without pace spearhead Cummins and veteran spinner Lyon.&nbsp;Cummins played his first Test since July in Adelaide after a long layoff with lower back issues and, while he came through unscathed, he said he may skip Melbourne to be on the safe side.<h3>'Job's done'</h3>&nbsp;"We'll wait and see. Now that the series has been won, there might be a sense of job's done, and let's kind of reassess a risk," he said. "So we'll work on it over the next couple days. I doubt I'll be playing Melbourne, and then we'll have a chat about Sydney.&nbsp;"But certainly while the series was live, let's take on the risk and have a crack at it."&nbsp;There is huge uncertainty around Lyon who pulled a hamstring on Sunday while fielding on the boundary. He went for scans and was later seen on crutches at the ground.&nbsp;"It doesn't look great. Don't know yet, but seeing someone on crutches doesn't really bode well for someone with a Test match a week away," said Cummins. "It's going to be hard to replace him but we have some guys who have already had a taste of international cricket around the traps."&nbsp;They include Todd Murphy and Matthew Kuhnemann.&nbsp;Batsman Steve Smith, who stood in for Cummins as skipper in the first two Tests, missed Adelaide after pulling out just before the toss with vertigo symptoms. But he was seen back in the nets and is expected to be ready for Melbourne, meaning Josh Inglis may drop out with Usman Khawaja moving to number five if Travis Head retains the opening role.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Australia could be without their two prime bowlers for the Boxing Day Test at the MCG. 

Elated Australia skipper Pat Cummins on Sunday said retaining the Ashes after just three Tests was "hugely satisfying" and vowed no let up in Melbourne while casting doubt on whether he and Nathan Lyon would play. Australia have been dominant all series with their 82-run win in Adelaide coming on the back of eight-wicket thumpings at Perth and Brisbane, securing the famous urn with two Tests still to play. "There was so much hype coming into the series, and you never really know how it will play out," said Cummins. "So winning in three Tests is hugely satisfying for many reasons. "A lot of the chat before the series was about how evenly poised it was going to be, and to win in straight Tests, it doesn't get much better than that." Also read | WTC Cycle 2025-27: Australia maintain 100% record; check where Team India sits on points table There are only five days until the fourth Test starts in Melbourne on December 26 with Cummins adamant Australia will not be taking their foot off the gas there or in the final Test in Sydney, beginning January 4. "The goal was to win the Ashes. But you're not going into a Test match not wanting to win, so we'll go to Melbourne and absolutely be desperate to win that one and Sydney," he said. "And if we get 5-0, it's amazing but I can't say that's been spoken about at all. It's always just been about how we're going to navigate our way through to three wins." Australia face going into the fourth Test without pace spearhead Cummins and veteran spinner Lyon. Cummins played his first Test since July in Adelaide after a long layoff with lower back issues and, while he came through unscathed, he said he may skip Melbourne to be on the safe side. 'Job's done' "We'll wait and see. Now that the series has been won, there might be a sense of job's done, and let's kind of reassess a risk," he said. "So we'll work on it over the next couple days. I doubt I'll be playing Melbourne, and then we'll have a chat about Sydney. "But certainly while the series was live, let's take on the risk and have a crack at it." There is huge uncertainty around Lyon who pulled a hamstring on Sunday while fielding on the boundary. He went for scans and was later seen on crutches at the ground. "It doesn't look great. Don't know yet, but seeing someone on crutches doesn't really bode well for someone with a Test match a week away," said Cummins. "It's going to be hard to replace him but we have some guys who have already had a taste of international cricket around the traps." They include Todd Murphy and Matthew Kuhnemann. Batsman Steve Smith, who stood in for Cummins as skipper in the first two Tests, missed Adelaide after pulling out just before the toss with vertigo symptoms. But he was seen back in the nets and is expected to be ready for Melbourne, meaning Josh Inglis may drop out with Usman Khawaja moving to number five if Travis Head retains the opening role. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Australia could be without their two prime bowlers for the Boxing Day Test at the MCG.&nbsp;

Ashes: Australian captain Cummins, Nathan Lyon doubtful for Boxing Day Test

From Shane Warne to Nathan Lyon, here's a look at the top five Australian bowlers with most wickets in Tests. This list also includes Glenn McGrath, Mitchell Starc and Dennis Lillee

From Shane Warne to Nathan Lyon, here's a look at the top five Australian bowlers with most wickets in Tests. This list also includes Glenn McGrath, Mitchell Starc and Dennis Lillee

Meet top 5 Australian bowlers with most Test wickets, Starc is fourth, check where Nathan Lyon stands

From Nathan Lyon to Mitchell Starc here is a look at five active bowlers with most Test wickets. The prestigious list also features the likes of Ravindra Jadeja, Kagiso Rabada and Pat Cummins as Lyon surpassed Glenn McGrath in the Adelaide Test of the Ashes.

From Nathan Lyon to Mitchell Starc here is a look at five active bowlers with most Test wickets. The prestigious list also features the likes of Ravindra Jadeja, Kagiso Rabada and Pat Cummins as Lyon surpassed Glenn McGrath in the Adelaide Test of the Ashes.

From Nathan Lyon to Mitchell Starc, 5 active bowlers with most Test wickets

Off-spinner Nathan Lyon said he was humbled on Thursday after claiming his 564th wicket to move clear of fellow Australian great Glenn McGrath and into sixth on the all-time Test bowling list. The 38-year-old, a classical spinner who flights the ball, bowled England's Ben Duckett to reach the milestone of day two of the third Ashes Test in Adelaide -- his 141st Test. It was one of two wickets in a sensational opening over, which also accounted for Ollie Pope.&nbsp;"I grew up idolising Shane Warne and Glenn McGrath, and these guys in my childhood were my heroes," he said. "And to think of being able to overtake Glenn ... it's pretty humbling to be honest with you, and it's something that I'll look back on at the end of my career, or even tonight.&nbsp;"I'll sit back and try and have a moment because it is an extremely special moment for myself.&nbsp;"But I haven't been able to do that without the guys at the other end, my teammates."&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ashes-nathan-lyon-surpasses-glenn-mcgrath-for-most-test-wickets-goes-second-behind-shane-warne-on-aussie-chart-1766028587261">Ashes: Nathan Lyon surpasses Glenn McGrath for most Test wickets, goes second behind Shane Warne on Aussie chart</a>&nbsp;Next in his sights is England seamer Stuart Broad, who has 604 wickets, then Indian great Anil Kumble's 619. Sri Lanka's Muttiah Muralitharan on 800 is the all-time top wicket-taker, followed by Warne (708) and England's Jimmy Anderson (704).&nbsp;Lyon recently said he was in some of the best form of his life and he had no plans to quit, with his longevity partly due to having not played international white-ball cricket since 2019. But he was surprisingly left out of the day-night second Ashes Test in Brisbane, responding by saying he was "absolutely filthy". Lyon was also overlooked for a pink-ball Test in the West Indies in July, marking his first omission while fit in 12 years.It was business as usual in Adelaide.&nbsp;"I've been around this group long enough to understand my role inside, and it's an amazing group to be a part of," he said. "I'll continue to enjoy that while I can; it's a pretty special group, and just extremely grateful for that opportunity, I guess.&nbsp;"Same emotions as usual, nervous, but that's me."&nbsp;Affectionately known as "Garry" after former Australian rules footballer Garry Lyon, he made his debut in 2011 and has best figures of 8-50.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

The 38-year-old, a classical spinner who flights the ball, bowled England's Ben Duckett to reach the milestone of day two of the third Ashes Test in Adelaide -- his 141st Test. It was one of two wickets in a sensational opening over, which also accounted for Ollie Pope.

Off-spinner Nathan Lyon said he was humbled on Thursday after claiming his 564th wicket to move clear of fellow Australian great Glenn McGrath and into sixth on the all-time Test bowling list. The 38-year-old, a classical spinner who flights the ball, bowled England's Ben Duckett to reach the milestone of day two of the third Ashes Test in Adelaide -- his 141st Test. It was one of two wickets in a sensational opening over, which also accounted for Ollie Pope. "I grew up idolising Shane Warne and Glenn McGrath, and these guys in my childhood were my heroes," he said. "And to think of being able to overtake Glenn ... it's pretty humbling to be honest with you, and it's something that I'll look back on at the end of my career, or even tonight. "I'll sit back and try and have a moment because it is an extremely special moment for myself. "But I haven't been able to do that without the guys at the other end, my teammates." Also read | Ashes: Nathan Lyon surpasses Glenn McGrath for most Test wickets, goes second behind Shane Warne on Aussie chart Next in his sights is England seamer Stuart Broad, who has 604 wickets, then Indian great Anil Kumble's 619. Sri Lanka's Muttiah Muralitharan on 800 is the all-time top wicket-taker, followed by Warne (708) and England's Jimmy Anderson (704). Lyon recently said he was in some of the best form of his life and he had no plans to quit, with his longevity partly due to having not played international white-ball cricket since 2019. But he was surprisingly left out of the day-night second Ashes Test in Brisbane, responding by saying he was "absolutely filthy". Lyon was also overlooked for a pink-ball Test in the West Indies in July, marking his first omission while fit in 12 years. It was business as usual in Adelaide. "I've been around this group long enough to understand my role inside, and it's an amazing group to be a part of," he said. "I'll continue to enjoy that while I can; it's a pretty special group, and just extremely grateful for that opportunity, I guess. "Same emotions as usual, nervous, but that's me." Affectionately known as "Garry" after former Australian rules footballer Garry Lyon, he made his debut in 2011 and has best figures of 8-50. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

The 38-year-old, a classical spinner who flights the ball, bowled England's Ben Duckett to reach the milestone of day two of the third Ashes Test in Adelaide -- his 141st Test. It was one of two wickets in a sensational opening over, which also accounted for Ollie Pope.

Lyon vows to have a moment for himself after surpassing childhood hero McGrath for most Test wickets

Snicko errors were the talk of the day on Day 2 of the third Ashes Test on Thursday (Dec 18) as England fight for survival at the Adelaide Oval. Playing in the third Test, having already lost the opening two matches of the Ashes, England were reduced to 213/8 at Stumps on Day 2. The visitors trail Australia by 158 runs in the first innings as they steer to yet another defeat in the ongoing Ashes.<h2>Snicko takes centre stage</h2>With a host of decision getting influenced by technological errors, mainly due to snicko, the third Ashes Test has seen Australia on top. Alex Carey’s key decision to be given not out on Day 1 was followed by Jamie Smith’s wrongful dismissal as snicko was the talk of the day. First, Smith was given not out despite the ball carrying to slip fielder Usman Khawaja, where the batter appeared to have touched the ball with his gloves.&nbsp;Later, Smith was given caught behind despite there being a clear gap between bat and ball in the 46th over.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;On the cricketing side, England lost key wickets of Duckett (29), Zak Crawley (9), Ollie Pope (3), Joe Root (19) and Harry Brook (45) early as they never got going. They were 71/4 at one stage before losing a series of wickets later as they were reduced to 168/8.At Stumps on Day 2, England were 213/8 with captain Ben Stokes unbeaten on 45 and Jofra Archer smashing an unbeaten 30 off 48 deliveries.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Earlier, Australia were bowled out for 371 runs with Mitchell Starc completing his fifty. He was dismissed for 54 as he added valuable runs down the order to help the Aussies get closer to a total near 400.

Playing in the third Test, having already lost the opening two matches of the Ashes, England were reduced to 213/8 at Stumps on Day 2 and now fight for survival. 

Snicko errors were the talk of the day on Day 2 of the third Ashes Test on Thursday (Dec 18) as England fight for survival at the Adelaide Oval. Playing in the third Test, having already lost the opening two matches of the Ashes, England were reduced to 213/8 at Stumps on Day 2. The visitors trail Australia by 158 runs in the first innings as they steer to yet another defeat in the ongoing Ashes. Snicko takes centre stage With a host of decision getting influenced by technological errors, mainly due to snicko, the third Ashes Test has seen Australia on top. Alex Carey’s key decision to be given not out on Day 1 was followed by Jamie Smith’s wrongful dismissal as snicko was the talk of the day. First, Smith was given not out despite the ball carrying to slip fielder Usman Khawaja, where the batter appeared to have touched the ball with his gloves. Later, Smith was given caught behind despite there being a clear gap between bat and ball in the 46th over. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes On the cricketing side, England lost key wickets of Duckett (29), Zak Crawley (9), Ollie Pope (3), Joe Root (19) and Harry Brook (45) early as they never got going. They were 71/4 at one stage before losing a series of wickets later as they were reduced to 168/8. At Stumps on Day 2, England were 213/8 with captain Ben Stokes unbeaten on 45 and Jofra Archer smashing an unbeaten 30 off 48 deliveries. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Earlier, Australia were bowled out for 371 runs with Mitchell Starc completing his fifty. He was dismissed for 54 as he added valuable runs down the order to help the Aussies get closer to a total near 400.

Playing in the third Test, having already lost the opening two matches of the Ashes, England were reduced to 213/8 at Stumps on Day 2 and now fight for survival.&nbsp;

Ashes 2025-26: Snicko errors take spotlight as England fight for survival in Adelaide Test

Australia’s Nathan Lyon added another feather to his hat on Thursday (Dec 18) as he became the second-highest wicket-taker for the national side in the Test format. Playing against England in the third Ashes Test at the Adelaide Oval, Lyon surpassed Glenn McGrath with his wicket numbers 563 and 564 in the same over of his spell in the opening session of Day 2. Lyon’s achievement also means he only trails great Shane Warne for the most wickets by an Aussie bowler in the red-ball format.<h2>Lyon surpasses McGrath for most Test wickets</h2>Lyon, who came into the third Test sitting just one wicket behind the Aussie great, scalped Ollie Pope on the third ball of the 10th over before getting the better of Ben Duckett on the final ball of the same over. This meant he surpassed McGrath for most wickets in the red-ball format, taking 141 matches and 261 innings. On the other hand, the former pacer needed 124 matches and 243 innings to register the feat.&nbsp;Lyon also sits sixth on the list of bowlers with the most Test wickets and is currently the bowler with the most active Test wickets. In terms of spinners, Lyon ranks fourth for most Test wickets with Muttiah Muralitharan, Shane Warne and Anil Kumble sitting above him.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a><h2>Most wickets in Test cricket</h2>800 - Muthiah Muralidaran708 - Shane Warne704 - James Anderson619 - Anil Kumble604 - Stuart Broad564* - Nathan Lyon563 - Glenn McGrath&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a><h2>What has happened so far in Adelaide Test?</h2>At the time of writing, England were 155/5 with Ben Stokes (24) and Jamie Smith (22) in the middle for the visitors. England lost key wickets of Duckett (29), Zak Crawley (9), Ollie Pope (3), Joe Root (19) and Harry Brook (45). The visitors were narrowed down to 71/4 at one stage before a small recovery structured their way to a score above 100.&nbsp;

Playing against England in the third Ashes Test at the Adelaide Oval, Nathan Lyon surpassed Glenn McGrath with his wicket numbers 563 and 564 in the same over of his spell in the opening session of Day 2.

Australia’s Nathan Lyon added another feather to his hat on Thursday (Dec 18) as he became the second-highest wicket-taker for the national side in the Test format. Playing against England in the third Ashes Test at the Adelaide Oval, Lyon surpassed Glenn McGrath with his wicket numbers 563 and 564 in the same over of his spell in the opening session of Day 2. Lyon’s achievement also means he only trails great Shane Warne for the most wickets by an Aussie bowler in the red-ball format. Lyon surpasses McGrath for most Test wickets Lyon, who came into the third Test sitting just one wicket behind the Aussie great, scalped Ollie Pope on the third ball of the 10th over before getting the better of Ben Duckett on the final ball of the same over. This meant he surpassed McGrath for most wickets in the red-ball format, taking 141 matches and 261 innings. On the other hand, the former pacer needed 124 matches and 243 innings to register the feat. Lyon also sits sixth on the list of bowlers with the most Test wickets and is currently the bowler with the most active Test wickets. In terms of spinners, Lyon ranks fourth for most Test wickets with Muttiah Muralitharan, Shane Warne and Anil Kumble sitting above him. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Most wickets in Test cricket 800 - Muthiah Muralidaran 708 - Shane Warne 704 - James Anderson 619 - Anil Kumble 604 - Stuart Broad 564* - Nathan Lyon 563 - Glenn McGrath ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes What has happened so far in Adelaide Test? At the time of writing, England were 155/5 with Ben Stokes (24) and Jamie Smith (22) in the middle for the visitors. England lost key wickets of Duckett (29), Zak Crawley (9), Ollie Pope (3), Joe Root (19) and Harry Brook (45). The visitors were narrowed down to 71/4 at one stage before a small recovery structured their way to a score above 100.

Playing against England in the third Ashes Test at the Adelaide Oval, Nathan Lyon surpassed Glenn McGrath with his wicket numbers 563 and 564 in the same over of his spell in the opening session of Day 2.

Ashes: Nathan Lyon surpasses Glenn McGrath for most Test wickets, goes second behind Shane Warne on Aussie chart

Fit-again opener Usman Khawaja was left out of the third Ashes Test in Adelaide starting Wednesday as skipper Pat Cummins and veteran Nathan Lyon were named in an Australia side looking to seal the series. Khawaja, who turns 39 this month, had back spasms and failed to open in the first Test victory against England in Perth, then was ruled out injured for the second in Brisbane. He has since recovered, but selectors opted to stick with Travis Head and Jake Weatherald at the top of the order, leaving the 85-Test veteran's international future in grave doubt.&nbsp;&nbsp;Asked if there was a way back for Khawaja, who has been on a lean run of form, Cummins replied: "Yeah, potentially.&nbsp;"I think the selectors have been quite adamant we're picking a side each week that doesn't necessarily mean it's got to be exactly the same team as the previous week.&nbsp;"We do that with the bowlers, this week obviously Nathan Lyon's coming back in, he missed last week.&nbsp;"One of Uzzie's (Khawaja) great strengths is he has scored runs at the top, he scored runs in the middle," he added. “If we didn't think he'd be good enough to come straight in, then he wouldn't be here in the squad. So absolutely, I can see a path back at some point if needed.”&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-england-make-one-change-to-playing-xi-for-decisive-adelaide-test-josh-tongue-gus-atkinson-1765780399211">Ashes: England make one change to playing XI for decisive Adelaide Test</a>&nbsp;As expected, Cummins returns after missing the first two Tests with a back injury and will lead the attack alongside the outstanding Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland. Veteran spin king Lyon is also back after being axed in preference for an all-pace attack at the Gabba, with Brendan Doggett and Michael Neser making way.&nbsp;&nbsp;Cummins said he was firing on all cylinders and raring to go.&nbsp;"If I played in Brisbane, I would have probably been on limited-overs, but this week it's just go and play like any other Test match," he said. "It's been fantastic to watch," he added of the series. "I think it's lived up to the hype, captivating every session.&nbsp;"I've loved it and itching to get out there. The boys have been fantastic, Steve (Smith) has led brilliantly, and I feel like I'm coming into a pretty settled and happy side.&nbsp;“Couldn't have gone any better from our point of view.”<h3>Australia XI for the Adelaide Test -</h3>Jake Weatherald, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Cameron Green, Josh Inglis, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins (capt), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Australia have announced their XI for the third Test in Adelaide 👀 Full XI: <a href="https://t.co/Yi0w7ANPFv">https://t.co/Yi0w7ANPFv</a> <a href="https://t.co/xGN43O904y">pic.twitter.com/xGN43O904y</a>&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/2000738536514060524?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Usman Khawaja missed selection in the Brisbane Test due to a back spasm but failed to return to the side for the third Test in Adelaide. 

Fit-again opener Usman Khawaja was left out of the third Ashes Test in Adelaide starting Wednesday as skipper Pat Cummins and veteran Nathan Lyon were named in an Australia side looking to seal the series. Khawaja, who turns 39 this month, had back spasms and failed to open in the first Test victory against England in Perth, then was ruled out injured for the second in Brisbane. He has since recovered, but selectors opted to stick with Travis Head and Jake Weatherald at the top of the order, leaving the 85-Test veteran's international future in grave doubt. Asked if there was a way back for Khawaja, who has been on a lean run of form, Cummins replied: "Yeah, potentially. "I think the selectors have been quite adamant we're picking a side each week that doesn't necessarily mean it's got to be exactly the same team as the previous week. "We do that with the bowlers, this week obviously Nathan Lyon's coming back in, he missed last week. "One of Uzzie's (Khawaja) great strengths is he has scored runs at the top, he scored runs in the middle," he added. “If we didn't think he'd be good enough to come straight in, then he wouldn't be here in the squad. So absolutely, I can see a path back at some point if needed.” Also read | Ashes: England make one change to playing XI for decisive Adelaide Test As expected, Cummins returns after missing the first two Tests with a back injury and will lead the attack alongside the outstanding Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland. Veteran spin king Lyon is also back after being axed in preference for an all-pace attack at the Gabba, with Brendan Doggett and Michael Neser making way. Cummins said he was firing on all cylinders and raring to go. "If I played in Brisbane, I would have probably been on limited-overs, but this week it's just go and play like any other Test match," he said. "It's been fantastic to watch," he added of the series. "I think it's lived up to the hype, captivating every session. "I've loved it and itching to get out there. The boys have been fantastic, Steve (Smith) has led brilliantly, and I feel like I'm coming into a pretty settled and happy side. “Couldn't have gone any better from our point of view.” Australia XI for the Adelaide Test - Jake Weatherald, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Cameron Green, Josh Inglis, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins (capt), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland

Usman Khawaja missed selection in the Brisbane Test due to a back spasm but failed to return to the side for the third Test in Adelaide.&nbsp;

Ashes: Cummins, Lyon return to playing XI for Adelaide Test; Khawaja left out

Nathan Lyon on Monday said he had nothing to prove after being surprisingly left out of the second Ashes Test, with the veteran Australia spinner expected to be recalled for the Adelaide encounter with England. The 38-year-old was not included for a pink-ball Test against the West Indies in July, marking his first omission while fit in 12 years. He played in the Ashes opener at Perth but was then overlooked for the day-night Test at the Gabba, where Australia again opted for an all-pace attack. Lyon at the time said that missing out was "absolutely filthy". But he will almost certainly be back for the third Test in Adelaide, starting Wednesday, with extreme heat expected and a dry wicket that will favour spin.&nbsp;"I've played 140 Test matches. I feel like I don't have a point to prove to anyone," said Lyon ahead of a Test that could see Australia wrap up the five-match series. "I'm very clear on my role within this Australian cricket team. I love playing with everyone in that change room and love playing representing Australia.&nbsp;"If I get that opportunity again, I'll keep doing that. My dream is to continue to play cricket for Australia.&nbsp;"No one's got a given right to be selected," he added. "You've got to work your backside off to make sure that you put your hand up for selection and you earn that right."&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-england-make-one-change-to-playing-xi-for-decisive-adelaide-test-josh-tongue-gus-atkinson-1765780399211">Ashes: England make one change to playing XI for decisive Adelaide Test</a><h3>Lyon nears McGrath's Test tally</h3>&nbsp;Lyon needs two more wickets in Adelaide to surpass fellow Australian Glenn McGrath's 563 and move into sixth on the all-time list.&nbsp;Australia are also set to welcome back skipper Pat Cummins, who missed the first two Tests with a lower back injury.&nbsp;&nbsp;In a minor worry, Steve Smith, who captained the side in Perth and Brisbane, was unwell and skipped a net session on Monday. The main selection question for Australia is whether a fit-again Usman Khawaja reclaims his place as opener or the hosts persist with Travis Head alongside Jake Weatherald.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Nathan Lyon needs two more wickets to surpass legendary seamer Glenn McGrath for the most Test wickets. 

Nathan Lyon on Monday said he had nothing to prove after being surprisingly left out of the second Ashes Test, with the veteran Australia spinner expected to be recalled for the Adelaide encounter with England. The 38-year-old was not included for a pink-ball Test against the West Indies in July, marking his first omission while fit in 12 years. He played in the Ashes opener at Perth but was then overlooked for the day-night Test at the Gabba, where Australia again opted for an all-pace attack. Lyon at the time said that missing out was "absolutely filthy". But he will almost certainly be back for the third Test in Adelaide, starting Wednesday, with extreme heat expected and a dry wicket that will favour spin. "I've played 140 Test matches. I feel like I don't have a point to prove to anyone," said Lyon ahead of a Test that could see Australia wrap up the five-match series. "I'm very clear on my role within this Australian cricket team. I love playing with everyone in that change room and love playing representing Australia. "If I get that opportunity again, I'll keep doing that. My dream is to continue to play cricket for Australia. "No one's got a given right to be selected," he added. "You've got to work your backside off to make sure that you put your hand up for selection and you earn that right." Also read | Ashes: England make one change to playing XI for decisive Adelaide Test Lyon nears McGrath's Test tally Lyon needs two more wickets in Adelaide to surpass fellow Australian Glenn McGrath's 563 and move into sixth on the all-time list. Australia are also set to welcome back skipper Pat Cummins, who missed the first two Tests with a lower back injury. In a minor worry, Steve Smith, who captained the side in Perth and Brisbane, was unwell and skipped a net session on Monday. The main selection question for Australia is whether a fit-again Usman Khawaja reclaims his place as opener or the hosts persist with Travis Head alongside Jake Weatherald. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Nathan Lyon needs two more wickets to surpass legendary seamer Glenn McGrath for the most Test wickets.&nbsp;

Ashes: Lyon has ‘nothing to prove to anyone’ as he aims to bounce back after Gabba omission

Australia left veteran spinner Nathan Lyon for the second consecutive pink-ball Test and the spinner was not happy about it at all. Lyon, after sitting out in Jamaica earlier this year, was replaced by Michael Neser for the second Ashes Test against England in Brisbane. Australia, led by Mitchell Starc, did well as a unit until the unbeaten last wicket stand of 61 runs between Joe Root and Jofra Archer gave England the final honours on a see-saw day.<h2>Lyon not happy about being benched for second consecutive pink-ball Test</h2>"Absolutely filthy," were Lyon's comments on Channel 7 about being informed about the missing the Test. "To be honest I haven't really sat down with Ronnie [Andrew McDonald] or George yet. I'm letting things settle down in my own head and trying to make sure that I'm, as I said, doing whatever I can to make sure the guys out in the middle representing Australia do the right thing and get the right result for us."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-auction-check-full-list-of-retained-players-slots-available-and-purse-left-for-kkr-csk-srh-lsg-dc-rcb-rr-gt-pbks-mi-1764855932173">IPL 2026 auction: Check full list of retained players &amp; purse left for each team</a>Australia went for all pace attack for the day-night Test while England picked up spin all-rounder Will Jacks to replaced injured Mark Wood as only change in their playing XI from Perth loss.<h2>Root ends century wait in Australia</h2>England's innings was highlighted by veteran batter Joe Root's maiden Test century in Australia after four tours, 16 Test and 30 innings. The ace batter remained not out on 135 to take England to 325/9 at the stumps. Root held up one end and his partnerships with Crawley (117 runs for third wicket), Brook (54 runs for fourth wicket) and Archer were key to keep Australia at bay despite Mitchell Starc another five-wicket haul. Starc finished the day with 6/71 and also went past Wasim Akram for most Test wickets by a left-arm pacer.

Australia went for all pace attack, replacing Lyon with Michael Neser, for the day-night Test while England picked up spin all-rounder Will Jacks to replaced injured Mark Wood as only change in their playing XI from Perth loss.

Australia left veteran spinner Nathan Lyon for the second consecutive pink-ball Test and the spinner was not happy about it at all. Lyon, after sitting out in Jamaica earlier this year, was replaced by Michael Neser for the second Ashes Test against England in Brisbane. Australia, led by Mitchell Starc, did well as a unit until the unbeaten last wicket stand of 61 runs between Joe Root and Jofra Archer gave England the final honours on a see-saw day. Lyon not happy about being benched for second consecutive pink-ball Test "Absolutely filthy," were Lyon's comments on Channel 7 about being informed about the missing the Test. "To be honest I haven't really sat down with Ronnie [Andrew McDonald] or George yet. I'm letting things settle down in my own head and trying to make sure that I'm, as I said, doing whatever I can to make sure the guys out in the middle representing Australia do the right thing and get the right result for us." Also Read - IPL 2026 auction: Check full list of retained players & purse left for each team Australia went for all pace attack for the day-night Test while England picked up spin all-rounder Will Jacks to replaced injured Mark Wood as only change in their playing XI from Perth loss. Root ends century wait in Australia England's innings was highlighted by veteran batter Joe Root's maiden Test century in Australia after four tours, 16 Test and 30 innings. The ace batter remained not out on 135 to take England to 325/9 at the stumps. Root held up one end and his partnerships with Crawley (117 runs for third wicket), Brook (54 runs for fourth wicket) and Archer were key to keep Australia at bay despite Mitchell Starc another five-wicket haul. Starc finished the day with 6/71 and also went past Wasim Akram for most Test wickets by a left-arm pacer.

Australia went for all pace attack, replacing Lyon with Michael Neser, for the day-night Test while England picked up spin all-rounder Will Jacks to replaced injured Mark Wood as only change in their playing XI from Perth loss.

Ashes 2025-26: Lyon 'letting things settle down in my own head' after being dropped from pink-ball Brisbane Test

Former Australian all-rounder Tom Moody has sparked controversy by suggesting Nathan Lyon could be dropped for the second Ashes Test in Brisbane, starting December 4. Lyon, who is just one wicket away from matching Glenn McGrath’s record of 563 Test wickets, has been under scrutiny. Moody, speaking on Wide World of Sports, believes that conditions in Brisbane will suit an all-pace attack over a specialist spinner.&nbsp;Moody's view comes in light of the Gabba pitch, which is expected to favour fast bowlers. Despite Lyon’s iconic status, Moody pointed out that the shift to day-night Test cricket makes it harder for spinners to play a significant role. He also noted that England’s aggressive batting style, often resulting in short innings, doesn’t give spinners like Lyon a chance to settle into the game.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sa-2nd-test-india-stare-at-series-defeat-after-being-set-up-549-run-target-in-guwahati-1764066831536">IND vs SA, 2nd Test: India stare at series defeat after being set up 549-run target in Guwahati</a>&nbsp;“I never thought I'd say this, but I would leave Lyon out,” Moody admitted. “It’s a tough decision, especially in Australia, but the Gabba conditions and England’s quick-scoring batsmen make it hard for a spinner to have an impact.” Moody proposed that Beau Webster could replace Lyon in the lineup, providing an extra batter to strengthen the team’s middle order. This would also give Australia more flexibility, particularly with the prospect of facing England’s unpredictable batting. In the first Ashes Test, Australia’s fast bowlers, led by Mitchell Starc, ran riot as England crumbled.&nbsp;&nbsp;Despite a 40-run first-innings deficit, Starc’s 10-wicket haul triggered a dramatic collapse of six wickets for 39 runs, leaving England in disarray. Travis Head’s blistering century then sealed a dominant win for Australia in just two days.With the series now at 1-0, England will look to bounce back in Brisbane, but Moody believes Australia’s selection strategy could be pivotal.

Ashes 2025-26: Could Nathan Lyon be left out of Brisbane Test? THIS two-time ODI World Cup winner Australian thinks so

Former Australian all-rounder Tom Moody has sparked controversy by suggesting Nathan Lyon could be dropped for the second Ashes Test in Brisbane, starting December 4. Lyon, who is just one wicket away from matching Glenn McGrath’s record of 563 Test wickets, has been under scrutiny. Moody, speaking on Wide World of Sports, believes that conditions in Brisbane will suit an all-pace attack over a specialist spinner. Moody's view comes in light of the Gabba pitch, which is expected to favour fast bowlers. Despite Lyon’s iconic status, Moody pointed out that the shift to day-night Test cricket makes it harder for spinners to play a significant role. He also noted that England’s aggressive batting style, often resulting in short innings, doesn’t give spinners like Lyon a chance to settle into the game. Also Read: IND vs SA, 2nd Test: India stare at series defeat after being set up 549-run target in Guwahati “I never thought I'd say this, but I would leave Lyon out,” Moody admitted. “It’s a tough decision, especially in Australia, but the Gabba conditions and England’s quick-scoring batsmen make it hard for a spinner to have an impact.” Moody proposed that Beau Webster could replace Lyon in the lineup, providing an extra batter to strengthen the team’s middle order. This would also give Australia more flexibility, particularly with the prospect of facing England’s unpredictable batting. In the first Ashes Test, Australia’s fast bowlers, led by Mitchell Starc, ran riot as England crumbled. Despite a 40-run first-innings deficit, Starc’s 10-wicket haul triggered a dramatic collapse of six wickets for 39 runs, leaving England in disarray. Travis Head’s blistering century then sealed a dominant win for Australia in just two days. With the series now at 1-0, England will look to bounce back in Brisbane, but Moody believes Australia’s selection strategy could be pivotal.

Tom Moody suggests that Nathan Lyon should be dropped for the second Ashes Test, favouring an all-pace attack on a seam-friendly Gabba pitch

From Mitchell Starc to Mark Wood, here's a look at the top five active bowlers with most wickets in The Ashes. This list also includes Nathan Lyon, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood

From Mitchell Starc to Mark Wood, here's a look at the top five active bowlers with most wickets in The Ashes. This list also includes Nathan Lyon, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood

From Mitchell Starc to Mark Wood, 5 active bowlers with most wickets in The Ashes

From Muttiah Muralitharan to Nathan Lyon, here's a look at the top five spinners with most Test wickets

From Muttiah Muralitharan to Nathan Lyon, here's a look at the top five spinners with most Test wickets

Meet top 5 spinners with most Test wickets, check who tops the list

From Mohammed Siraj to Mitchell Starc, here's a look at the top five bowlers with most Test wickets in 2025. This list also includes Blessing Muzarabani, Nathan Lyon and Jomel Warrican

From Mohammed Siraj to Mitchell Starc, here's a look at the top five bowlers with most Test wickets in 2025. This list also includes Blessing Muzarabani, Nathan Lyon and Jomel Warrican

From Mohammed Siraj to Mitchell Starc, 5 bowlers with most Test wickets in 2025, no.2 will surprise you

From Mitchell Starc to Pat Cummins, 5 active bowlers with most Test wickets, check who tops list

Australia ended West Indies tour undefeated - winning three Test series 3-0 and five-T20I series 5-0 - but it was their decision to drop ace spinner Nathan Lyon in day-night Test which made most headlines. Lyon was dropped because of limited data available on his effectiveness during the pink-ball Tests as the Australia chief selector informed at the time. The spinner, however, was more disappointed about not playing with teammate and pacer Mitchell Starc in his 100th red-ball match for Australia. Lyon, meanwhile, is focused on skills and fitness and not thinking about his place in the team for the pink-ball match in Ashes later this year.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-bcci-mull-sacking-morne-morkel-head-coach-gambhirs-other-support-staff-over-tactical-calls-on-england-tour-report-1753776355701">BCCI mulls sacking head coach Gambhir's support staff - Report</a>&nbsp;"There's no point hiding behind it, I was disappointed with the decision, but I totally understood it," he said during an appearance for BBL franchise Melbourne Renegades. "Disappointed on a number of levels that: One, I believe I can play a role in any conditions, and I still honestly believe that. And then honestly, the other one was not to walk out on the field with Starcy. I've played 90-odd Test matches with Starcy, so to be able to walk out there with him in his 100th would have been amazing. But I was still there, running the drinks, and still part of it," he added.Australia's focus is already on the upcoming Ashes against England at home and Lyon is looking forward to it. "I'm definitely not thinking about my place in the team," he said. "I know my role in the side, and the conditions really was the reason why I missed that Test match. But I'm fully focused on making sure that fitness levels are high, skill levels are high, leading into the first three Shield games and then into the Perth Test match. I love bowling in Perth. Love bowling all around Australia if I'm being honest with you, so no, I've got no doubts there."

Australia's ace spinner Nathan Lyon disappointed about not playing with teammate and pacer Mitchell Starc in his 100th red-ball match for Australia.

Australia ended West Indies tour undefeated - winning three Test series 3-0 and five-T20I series 5-0 - but it was their decision to drop ace spinner Nathan Lyon in day-night Test which made most headlines. Lyon was dropped because of limited data available on his effectiveness during the pink-ball Tests as the Australia chief selector informed at the time. The spinner, however, was more disappointed about not playing with teammate and pacer Mitchell Starc in his 100th red-ball match for Australia. Lyon, meanwhile, is focused on skills and fitness and not thinking about his place in the team for the pink-ball match in Ashes later this year. Also Read - BCCI mulls sacking head coach Gambhir's support staff - Report "There's no point hiding behind it, I was disappointed with the decision, but I totally understood it," he said during an appearance for BBL franchise Melbourne Renegades. "Disappointed on a number of levels that: One, I believe I can play a role in any conditions, and I still honestly believe that. And then honestly, the other one was not to walk out on the field with Starcy. I've played 90-odd Test matches with Starcy, so to be able to walk out there with him in his 100th would have been amazing. But I was still there, running the drinks, and still part of it," he added. Australia's focus is already on the upcoming Ashes against England at home and Lyon is looking forward to it. "I'm definitely not thinking about my place in the team," he said. "I know my role in the side, and the conditions really was the reason why I missed that Test match. But I'm fully focused on making sure that fitness levels are high, skill levels are high, leading into the first three Shield games and then into the Perth Test match. I love bowling in Perth. Love bowling all around Australia if I'm being honest with you, so no, I've got no doubts there."

Australia's ace spinner Nathan Lyon disappointed about not playing with teammate and pacer Mitchell Starc in his 100th red-ball match for Australia.

Lyon was dropped from day-night West Indies Test but it wasn't the only reason he felt 'disappointed'

From Muttiah Muralitharan to James Anderson, here's a look at seven highest wicket-takers in Test cricket history. Surprisingly, only one Indian is in the list.

From Muttiah Muralitharan to James Anderson, here's a look at seven highest wicket-takers in Test cricket history. Surprisingly, only one Indian is in the list.

From Muttiah Muralitharan to James Anderson: 7 highest wicket-takers in Test cricket history, only one Indian in list

Australia didn't play spinner Nathan Lyon - who has 562 Test wickets to his name - in the ongoing day-night Test against West Indies because that data was against him. Notably, Lyon has 43 wickets to his name in day/nights Tests - joint-second most along with Pat Cummins and only behind Mitchell Starc's 75 for not only Australia but in Test history. This is also the first time Lyon has been overlooked apart from 2013 Ashes where Ashton Agar was preferred initially. Lyon is also Australia joint-second highest wicket-taker along with Glenn McGrath and the only active bowler have more than 400 Test wickets to his name.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/under-par-stokes-while-batting-first-time-as-skipper-now-struggling-in-second-attempt-as-well-1752481716160">Under par Stokes while batting first time now struggling in 2nd attempt as well</a>"It's something that wasn't front of mind, certainly a difficult [decision], but we thought the exceptional circumstances justified having the four quicks so that we could rotate those guys and keep the pressure on," Aussie selector Tony Dodemaide said as reported by ESPNCricinfo. "On a well-grassed surface and a hard surface with lots of night time play hours, that was the best way to win the game."Dodemaide referred to the last played at the ongoing Test's venue - Barbados - which had a limited impact by spinner. Still, you don't drop a spinner like Lyon based on the data from one Test. The Aussie selector admitted that it was lack of data in support of spinners which played a part in fielding four-pronged pace attack as Australia look to clean sweep the three-Test series."The key in here is it's a conditions-based decision to go with the four quicks," Dodemaide said. "What we found here with the limited data that we have on particularly the pink Dukes ball… [is] that it actually behaves a little differently to the Kookaburra one. It doesn't go as soft," he added.

Notably, Lyon has 43 wickets to his name in day/nights Tests - joint-second most along with Pat Cummins and only behind Mitchell Starc's 75 for not only Australia but in Test history. 

Australia didn't play spinner Nathan Lyon - who has 562 Test wickets to his name - in the ongoing day-night Test against West Indies because that data was against him. Notably, Lyon has 43 wickets to his name in day/nights Tests - joint-second most along with Pat Cummins and only behind Mitchell Starc's 75 for not only Australia but in Test history. This is also the first time Lyon has been overlooked apart from 2013 Ashes where Ashton Agar was preferred initially. Lyon is also Australia joint-second highest wicket-taker along with Glenn McGrath and the only active bowler have more than 400 Test wickets to his name. Also Read - Under par Stokes while batting first time now struggling in 2nd attempt as well "It's something that wasn't front of mind, certainly a difficult [decision], but we thought the exceptional circumstances justified having the four quicks so that we could rotate those guys and keep the pressure on," Aussie selector Tony Dodemaide said as reported by ESPNCricinfo. "On a well-grassed surface and a hard surface with lots of night time play hours, that was the best way to win the game." Dodemaide referred to the last played at the ongoing Test's venue - Barbados - which had a limited impact by spinner. Still, you don't drop a spinner like Lyon based on the data from one Test. The Aussie selector admitted that it was lack of data in support of spinners which played a part in fielding four-pronged pace attack as Australia look to clean sweep the three-Test series. "The key in here is it's a conditions-based decision to go with the four quicks," Dodemaide said. "What we found here with the limited data that we have on particularly the pink Dukes ball… [is] that it actually behaves a little differently to the Kookaburra one. It doesn't go as soft," he added.

Notably, Lyon has 43 wickets to his name in day/nights Tests - joint-second most along with Pat Cummins and only behind Mitchell Starc's 75 for not only Australia but in Test history.&nbsp;

Lyon is second on most wickets list in day-night Tests but Australia dropped him vs WI because of 'limited data'

Nathan Lyon could be denied a shot at history as Australian captain Pat Cummins feels puzzled picking the playing XI for the third and final Test against West Indies, a Day/Night affair, at Sabina Park starting Saturday (Jul 12). Sitting at the seventh spot on the list of bowlers with the most Test wickets (562), one short of equaling Glenn McGrath’s record as the second-most for an Australian behind late Shane Warne, Lyon could fail to make it to the side for the first time in 12 years, Cummins hinted on match eve. Should the selectors drop the off-spinner for a pacer, he will have to wait for another five months to enter the record book.&nbsp;A combination of pink ball and playing conditions at Sabina Park could force Australia to do something they have not done in over a decade - bench their best spinner regardless of the pitch. Although they have already won the series, the Australian Team wishes to tick off their first away Day/Night Test win and whitewash West Indies.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-white-ball-for-cricket-for-pat-cummins-before-october-as-australian-captain-prepares-for-home-ashes-2025-england-1752316522166">No white-ball for cricket for Pat Cummins before October as Australian captain prepares for Ashes</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, barring three Tests that Lyon missed during the last away Ashes (in 2023) due to a calf injury, he hasn’t been absent from a red-ball game since one against England in 2013. Asked if Australia would punt on benching Lyon for a pacer in the pink-ball tie, Cummins said, "I think everything's an option. We honestly haven't settled on it. We all left yesterday and thought we'd just sleep on it, come back and have a look and make up our mind today." &nbsp;In a series dominated by the quicks, Lyon has picked up nine wickets in two Tests at 18.33, including six in the second Test in Grenada, but Cummins said he needs to consider the conditions before picking the final XI.&nbsp; &nbsp;"[There are] a few more unknowns…I think mainly pink ball and trying to get our heads around exactly what it's going to do," Cummins said before the training session. "That last session [under lights] might be a little bit longer than Adelaide." &nbsp;The third Test at Sabina Park will begin at 00:00 hrs on Sunday (Jul 13) IST.&nbsp;

A combination of pink ball and playing conditions at Sabina Park could force Australia to do something they have not done in over a decade - bench their best spinner regardless of the pitch.

Nathan Lyon could be denied a shot at history as Australian captain Pat Cummins feels puzzled picking the playing XI for the third and final Test against West Indies, a Day/Night affair, at Sabina Park starting Saturday (Jul 12). Sitting at the seventh spot on the list of bowlers with the most Test wickets (562), one short of equaling Glenn McGrath’s record as the second-most for an Australian behind late Shane Warne, Lyon could fail to make it to the side for the first time in 12 years, Cummins hinted on match eve. Should the selectors drop the off-spinner for a pacer, he will have to wait for another five months to enter the record book. A combination of pink ball and playing conditions at Sabina Park could force Australia to do something they have not done in over a decade - bench their best spinner regardless of the pitch. Although they have already won the series, the Australian Team wishes to tick off their first away Day/Night Test win and whitewash West Indies. Also read | No white-ball for cricket for Pat Cummins before October as Australian captain prepares for Ashes Meanwhile, barring three Tests that Lyon missed during the last away Ashes (in 2023) due to a calf injury, he hasn’t been absent from a red-ball game since one against England in 2013. Asked if Australia would punt on benching Lyon for a pacer in the pink-ball tie, Cummins said, "I think everything's an option. We honestly haven't settled on it. We all left yesterday and thought we'd just sleep on it, come back and have a look and make up our mind today." In a series dominated by the quicks, Lyon has picked up nine wickets in two Tests at 18.33, including six in the second Test in Grenada, but Cummins said he needs to consider the conditions before picking the final XI. "[There are] a few more unknowns…I think mainly pink ball and trying to get our heads around exactly what it's going to do," Cummins said before the training session. "That last session [under lights] might be a little bit longer than Adelaide." The third Test at Sabina Park will begin at 00:00 hrs on Sunday (Jul 13) IST.

A combination of pink ball and playing conditions at Sabina Park could force Australia to do something they have not done in over a decade - bench their best spinner regardless of the pitch.

Day/Night Test: Australia could deny Nathan Lyon a shot at history in pink-ball tie, know how

Australia cannot do anything wrong.
The Steve Smith-led side crushed Sri Lanka by nine wickets on day four of the second Test in Galle to complete an away series whitewash. With this win, they completed their first Test series victory in the island nation since 2011, ending the current WTC cycle on the top. Australia will face South Africa next in the WTC Final in June later this year.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-eng-2nd-odi-shreyas-iyer-or-yashasvi-jaiswal-who-sits-out-when-virat-kohli-returns-to-playing-xi-in-cuttack-8703976" rel="dofollow">IND vs ENG 2nd ODI: Iyer or Jaiswal, who sits out when Kohli returns to playing XI in Cuttack?</a>
After winning the first Test at the same venue with an innings and 242 runs, they inflicted another humiliating loss on the Lankans, beating them hands down in the second game to take the series home.&nbsp;
While Sri Lankan opener Dimuth Karunaratne bowed out of Test cricket with over 7000 runs in 100 Tests&mdash;being their most prolific opener ever&mdash;Australia&rsquo;s Smith entered the history books for his double feat in the second Test. Earlier, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sl-vs-aus-galle-test-steve-smith-equals-joe-root-rahul-dravids-record-for-most-test-tons-8699131" rel="dofollow">Smith notched up his record 36th Test ton</a>, his second of the series, and fourth in the past five Tests; he later became only the fifth fielder (non-keeper) to complete 200 catches in Test cricket.
<h2>Australia all over Sri Lanka</h2>
Bowling first after losing the toss, Australia wrapped up Sri Lanka&rsquo;s first innings on 257, with Mitchell Starc and the spin duo of Matthew Kuhnemann and Nathan Lyon returning with three wickets each. Australia&rsquo;s first-inning reply was monstrous as the 259-run stand between Smith and keeper-batter Alex Carey for the fourth wicket propelled them to 414.
While Smith&rsquo;s 131 was a testament to his form in this format, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sl-vs-aus-galle-test-alex-carey-breaks-adam-gilchrists-this-record-as-australia-eye-clean-sweep-8702354" rel="dofollow">Carey&rsquo;s second Test hundred (156) was the highest score by an Aussie gloveman in away Tests</a>.
The Aussie spinners again made light work of Sri Lankan batters in the second innings, with the same duo picking four wickets each, while all-rounder Beau Webster returned with two, one of which came after he switched to bowling off-spin late on day three.
Owing to an all-round effort, they <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sl-vs-aus-2nd-test-australia-on-brink-of-win-as-sri-lanka-suffer-setbacks-in-second-innings-8702944" rel="dofollow">dismissed Sri Lanka on 231</a>, needing 74 to win the match.
Travis Head and Usman Khawaja began the chase with some boundaries before Sri Lanka&rsquo;s best bowler, Prabath Jayasuriya, removed Head on 20. Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne completed the formalities, and Australia won the match with nine wickets remaining.
Both teams will now face off in the two-match ODIs starting on February 12 and 14 before Australia flies to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 beginning on February 19.&nbsp;

Cricket Sports: With this win, Australia completed their first Test series victory in the island nation since 2011, ending the current WTC cycle on the top.

Australia cannot do anything wrong. The Steve Smith-led side crushed Sri Lanka by nine wickets on day four of the second Test in Galle to complete an away series whitewash. With this win, they completed their first Test series victory in the island nation since 2011, ending the current WTC cycle on the top. Australia will face South Africa next in the WTC Final in June later this year. Also read | IND vs ENG 2nd ODI: Iyer or Jaiswal, who sits out when Kohli returns to playing XI in Cuttack? After winning the first Test at the same venue with an innings and 242 runs, they inflicted another humiliating loss on the Lankans, beating them hands down in the second game to take the series home. While Sri Lankan opener Dimuth Karunaratne bowed out of Test cricket with over 7000 runs in 100 Tests—being their most prolific opener ever—Australia’s Smith entered the history books for his double feat in the second Test. Earlier, Smith notched up his record 36th Test ton, his second of the series, and fourth in the past five Tests; he later became only the fifth fielder (non-keeper) to complete 200 catches in Test cricket. Australia all over Sri Lanka Bowling first after losing the toss, Australia wrapped up Sri Lanka’s first innings on 257, with Mitchell Starc and the spin duo of Matthew Kuhnemann and Nathan Lyon returning with three wickets each. Australia’s first-inning reply was monstrous as the 259-run stand between Smith and keeper-batter Alex Carey for the fourth wicket propelled them to 414. While Smith’s 131 was a testament to his form in this format, Carey’s second Test hundred (156) was the highest score by an Aussie gloveman in away Tests. The Aussie spinners again made light work of Sri Lankan batters in the second innings, with the same duo picking four wickets each, while all-rounder Beau Webster returned with two, one of which came after he switched to bowling off-spin late on day three. Owing to an all-round effort, they dismissed Sri Lanka on 231, needing 74 to win the match. Travis Head and Usman Khawaja began the chase with some boundaries before Sri Lanka’s best bowler, Prabath Jayasuriya, removed Head on 20. Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne completed the formalities, and Australia won the match with nine wickets remaining. Both teams will now face off in the two-match ODIs starting on February 12 and 14 before Australia flies to Pakistan for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 beginning on February 19.

Australia crush Sri Lanka in second Test in Galle to complete series whitewash

Nathan Lyon, the Australian off-spinner, has donated cricket bats signed by Indian legends Virat Kohli and seamer Jasprit Bumrah to the National Cricket Inclusion Championships (NCIC) &ndash; which supports disabled cricketers in the country. Lyon, the NCIC&rsquo;s ambassador, donated the bats with a &lsquo;sport for all&rsquo; quote written in Braille.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/australian-open-2025-naomi-osaka-withdraws-after-sustaining-injury-8629470" rel="dofollow">Australian Open 2025: Naomi Osaka withdraws after sustaining injury</a>
Lyon is said to have spoken to Cricket Australia about how the country&rsquo;s top cricketers can inspire the younger generation to take up the sport.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The position we&rsquo;re in as role models if we can inspire boys and girls to go out there and play this beautiful game, which I believe is a sport for all, then it&rsquo;s worth it," Lyon said.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m60qam09-kdk6d5i7-ynmnowm7">
A sport for all ❤️ Ahead of the 2025 National Cricket Inclusion Championships, National Inclusion Ambassador for Cricketers with a Disability, Nathan Lyon, has donated three exclusive signed bats to Cricket Australia social impact partner Taverners Australia. <a href="https://t.co/ibl3wQauoC">pic.twitter.com/ibl3wQauoC</a>
&mdash; Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricketAus/status/1880145191467884705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2025</a></blockquote>
The ace Aussie spinner is also hopeful of these players (disabled cricketers) earning a spot in the Australia Intellectual Disability (ID) team.&nbsp;
&ldquo;These guys are representing South Australia up in Brisbane, so in my eyes, they are playing state cricket, and hopefully, they can put their hands up for international selection in the Australian ID team," he continued.
<h2>NCIC dates and venues</h2>
Cricket Australia (CA) confirmed the dates of 2025 NCIC; the tournament will be played across six days (January 19-24), with Queensland Cricket and Warehouse Cricket set to host. Twenty-two teams will represent seven different states and territories, with the competition to be played across five divisions - Blind and Low Vision Mixed, Blind and Low Vision women's, cricketers with an Intellectual Disability, Deaf and Hard of Hearing men and Deaf &amp; Hard of Hearing women's.
Meanwhile, Joel Morrison, Cricket Australia's General Manager of Events &amp; Operations, said, as quoted by a Cricket Australia press release, "The National Cricket Inclusion Championships are a great event that showcases the best Australian cricketers with a disability, and Cricket Australia's mission to be a sport for all."&nbsp;
"The NCIC continue to go from strength to strength, and we're excited to see them evolve even further in 2025 with a full week of blind and low-vision women's games, building on the success of last year's exhibition matches."&nbsp;
"It is a testament to the growing passion for inclusive cricket across the country, and we are excited to see these incredible athletes inspire the next generation while showcasing their talents on a national stage,&rdquo; he continued.
(With inputs from agencies)

Sport, Cricket: Nathan Lyon is said to have spoken to Cricket Australia about how the country’s top cricketers can inspire the younger generation to take up the sport. 

Nathan Lyon, the Australian off-spinner, has donated cricket bats signed by Indian legends Virat Kohli and seamer Jasprit Bumrah to the National Cricket Inclusion Championships (NCIC) – which supports disabled cricketers in the country. Lyon, the NCIC’s ambassador, donated the bats with a ‘sport for all’ quote written in Braille. Also read | Australian Open 2025: Naomi Osaka withdraws after sustaining injury Lyon is said to have spoken to Cricket Australia about how the country’s top cricketers can inspire the younger generation to take up the sport. “The position we’re in as role models if we can inspire boys and girls to go out there and play this beautiful game, which I believe is a sport for all, then it’s worth it," Lyon said. A sport for all ❤️ Ahead of the 2025 National Cricket Inclusion Championships, National Inclusion Ambassador for Cricketers with a Disability, Nathan Lyon, has donated three exclusive signed bats to Cricket Australia social impact partner Taverners Australia. pic.twitter.com/ibl3wQauoC — Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) January 17, 2025 The ace Aussie spinner is also hopeful of these players (disabled cricketers) earning a spot in the Australia Intellectual Disability (ID) team. “These guys are representing South Australia up in Brisbane, so in my eyes, they are playing state cricket, and hopefully, they can put their hands up for international selection in the Australian ID team," he continued. NCIC dates and venues Cricket Australia (CA) confirmed the dates of 2025 NCIC; the tournament will be played across six days (January 19-24), with Queensland Cricket and Warehouse Cricket set to host. Twenty-two teams will represent seven different states and territories, with the competition to be played across five divisions - Blind and Low Vision Mixed, Blind and Low Vision women's, cricketers with an Intellectual Disability, Deaf and Hard of Hearing men and Deaf & Hard of Hearing women's. Meanwhile, Joel Morrison, Cricket Australia's General Manager of Events & Operations, said, as quoted by a Cricket Australia press release, "The National Cricket Inclusion Championships are a great event that showcases the best Australian cricketers with a disability, and Cricket Australia's mission to be a sport for all." "The NCIC continue to go from strength to strength, and we're excited to see them evolve even further in 2025 with a full week of blind and low-vision women's games, building on the success of last year's exhibition matches." "It is a testament to the growing passion for inclusive cricket across the country, and we are excited to see these incredible athletes inspire the next generation while showcasing their talents on a national stage,” he continued. (With inputs from agencies)

Lyon donates Kohli, Bumrah-signed bats to support disabled cricketers

An unbeaten 55-run stand between Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland for the tenth wicket frustrated India as Australia scored 228 for nine at stumps (in their second innings) on day four at the MCG, leading by 333. Despite getting reduced to 91 for six at one stage, having lost four wickets for 21 balls, the hosts recovered to give themselves a chance of winning the Boxing Day Test.
Bumrah floored Australia post lunch with three quick wickets, four in total, including bagging his 200th Test wicket &ndash; the fastest for an Indian pacer, besides doing at an average of 19.56, again the best-ever.
Meanwhile, day four began with Nitish Kumar Reddy and Mohammed Siraj at the crease, with the pair adding just 11 runs to the overnight tally before Lyon removed Reddy on 114 to wrap up India&rsquo;s innings on 369.&nbsp;
With a lead of 105, Australia was ahead in the game; however, not for long. Bumrah accounted for opener Sam Konstas, who bowled on eight before Siraj removed his partner Usman Khawaja on 21 off 65 balls.&nbsp;
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MIDDLE STUMP! Jasprit Bumrah gets Sam Konstas with a pearler. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DeliveredWithSpeed?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DeliveredWithSpeed</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/NBN_Australia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NBN_Australia</a> <a href="https://t.co/A1BzrcHJB8">pic.twitter.com/A1BzrcHJB8</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1873158270518468857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith played through lunch, only for Siraj to return and send Smith packing shortly after.&nbsp;
His dismissal, however, triggered a middle-order collapse, with Bumrah, in the first over of his second spell, removing Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh.
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Jasprit Bumrah takes his 200th Test wicket and follows it up with 201 just moments later!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MilestoneMoment?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MilestoneMoment</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nrmainsurance</a> <a href="https://t.co/NpiXDBaVDI">pic.twitter.com/NpiXDBaVDI</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1873203596919025985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
In his next over, he cleaned bowled gloveman Alex Carey to put Australia&rsquo;s back against the wall.&nbsp;
A situation like that could panic most teams when much more than just a win is on the line, but Captain Pat Cummins and Marnus showed nerves of steel to bail them out of trouble. The pair added 57 runs for the seventh wicket before Siraj got Marnus&rsquo; number, leaving the skipper with the tail.
Later, a huge mix-up led to Mitchell Starc&rsquo;s run out, bringing Lyon to the crease. Cummins departed soon after on 41, scoring 90 runs across both innings in this Test.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-mark-waugh-voices-for-next-australias-andrew-symonds-to-replace-under-fire-mitchell-marsh-in-scg-test-8575226" rel="dofollow">Also read: BGT: Mark Waugh voices for Australia's next &lsquo;Symonds&rsquo; to replace Marsh in SCG Test</a>
<h2>Tail frustrates India</h2>
Lyon and Boland had plenty riding on their shoulders, with the earliest aim being to add as many runs as possible.
In an attempt to curb Australia&rsquo;s ticking run rate, Rohit kept throwing the ball to Bumrah, tiring the Indian pacer after another decisive day at work. Nothing worked.
The pair completed the 50-plus run stand only to save the best for the last over of the day.
After India took the new ball in the penultimate over, Bumrah bowled the last, finding the edge off Lyon, caught in the slips only for him to overstep on that delivery. However, Lyon hitting a four off the last ball was like the final nail in the coffin for India, as the lead now reads 333.
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In the last over of Day Four, Jasprit Bumrah thought he taken the final wicket. But it was called a no-ball. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/Yc9kjO3bVc">pic.twitter.com/Yc9kjO3bVc</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1873264849716650238?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
With just one day left in the game, all results are possible.&nbsp;

Despite getting reduced to 91 for six at one stage, having lost four wickets for 21 balls, the hosts recovered to give themselves a chance of winning the Boxing Day Test. 

An unbeaten 55-run stand between Nathan Lyon and Scott Boland for the tenth wicket frustrated India as Australia scored 228 for nine at stumps (in their second innings) on day four at the MCG, leading by 333. Despite getting reduced to 91 for six at one stage, having lost four wickets for 21 balls, the hosts recovered to give themselves a chance of winning the Boxing Day Test. Bumrah floored Australia post lunch with three quick wickets, four in total, including bagging his 200th Test wicket – the fastest for an Indian pacer, besides doing at an average of 19.56, again the best-ever. Meanwhile, day four began with Nitish Kumar Reddy and Mohammed Siraj at the crease, with the pair adding just 11 runs to the overnight tally before Lyon removed Reddy on 114 to wrap up India’s innings on 369. With a lead of 105, Australia was ahead in the game; however, not for long. Bumrah accounted for opener Sam Konstas, who bowled on eight before Siraj removed his partner Usman Khawaja on 21 off 65 balls. MIDDLE STUMP! Jasprit Bumrah gets Sam Konstas with a pearler. #AUSvIND | #DeliveredWithSpeed | @NBN_Australia pic.twitter.com/A1BzrcHJB8 — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 29, 2024 Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith played through lunch, only for Siraj to return and send Smith packing shortly after. His dismissal, however, triggered a middle-order collapse, with Bumrah, in the first over of his second spell, removing Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh. Jasprit Bumrah takes his 200th Test wicket and follows it up with 201 just moments later!#AUSvIND | #MilestoneMoment | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/NpiXDBaVDI — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 29, 2024 In his next over, he cleaned bowled gloveman Alex Carey to put Australia’s back against the wall. A situation like that could panic most teams when much more than just a win is on the line, but Captain Pat Cummins and Marnus showed nerves of steel to bail them out of trouble. The pair added 57 runs for the seventh wicket before Siraj got Marnus’ number, leaving the skipper with the tail. Later, a huge mix-up led to Mitchell Starc’s run out, bringing Lyon to the crease. Cummins departed soon after on 41, scoring 90 runs across both innings in this Test. Also read: BGT: Mark Waugh voices for Australia's next ‘Symonds’ to replace Marsh in SCG Test Tail frustrates India Lyon and Boland had plenty riding on their shoulders, with the earliest aim being to add as many runs as possible. In an attempt to curb Australia’s ticking run rate, Rohit kept throwing the ball to Bumrah, tiring the Indian pacer after another decisive day at work. Nothing worked. The pair completed the 50-plus run stand only to save the best for the last over of the day. After India took the new ball in the penultimate over, Bumrah bowled the last, finding the edge off Lyon, caught in the slips only for him to overstep on that delivery. However, Lyon hitting a four off the last ball was like the final nail in the coffin for India, as the lead now reads 333. In the last over of Day Four, Jasprit Bumrah thought he taken the final wicket. But it was called a no-ball. #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/Yc9kjO3bVc — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 29, 2024 With just one day left in the game, all results are possible.

BGT, MCG Test: Aussie tail frustrates India after Bumrah’s heroic spell on day 4

India batter Yashasvi Jaiswal hit Aussie spinner Nathan Lyon for a 100-metre six on Day 2 of the first Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test in Perth, Australia. Jaiswal was in full form on Saturday (Nov 23) after getting out on a duck in the in the first innings as India took a commanding position in the Test.

The shot came in the third session of the day with the southpaw already past his maiden fifty Down Under. Lyon bowled a ball on the middle and leg stump which Jaiswal launched towards long-on.

Have a look at the video of the six below:

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The left-hand batter hit two sixes during his unbeaten fifty. He now has hit the most Test sixes (34) in a calendar year, overtaking former New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum's record of 33 sixes in 2014.

Also Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-perth-test-watch-aussie-mitchell-starc-warns-indias-harshit-rana-for-bowling-short-ball-778671">BGT 2024-25, Perth Test: Aussie Mitchell Starc WARNS India's Harshit Rana for bowling short-ball</a>

He has been a breakthrough player for India ever since making his red-ball debut in 2023. He has scored 1209 Test runs in 2024 already with potentially three more Tests available for him to further extend his tally apart from the ongoing innings.

His runs in 2024 are only behind England great Joe Root who has 1,338 runs in 14 Tests he has played in 2024.

Jaiswal, along with India's other opener KL Rahul, has added an unbeaten 172 runs for the first wicket in India's second innings – the second-highest opening partnership for India in Tests in Australia.

The visitors ended the day with 218 runs ahead in the second innings including the first 46-run first innings lead without losing a single wicket. Jaiswal was not out 90 by the end of the day's play while Rahul was unbeaten on 62.

Earlier, Australia resumed their innings from the overnight score of 67/7 and were bowled out for 104 with stand-in skipper Jasprit Bumrah taking 5/30.

India batter Yashasvi Jaiswal hit Aussie spinner Nathan Lyon for a 100-metre six on Day 2 of the first Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test in Perth, Australia. Jaiswal was in full form on Saturday (Nov 23) after getting out on a duck in the in the first innings as India took a commanding position in the Test.

India batter Yashasvi Jaiswal hit Aussie spinner Nathan Lyon for a 100-metre six on Day 2 of the first Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test in Perth, Australia. Jaiswal was in full form on Saturday (Nov 23) after getting out on a duck in the in the first innings as India took a commanding position in the Test. The shot came in the third session of the day with the southpaw already past his maiden fifty Down Under. Lyon bowled a ball on the middle and leg stump which Jaiswal launched towards long-on. Have a look at the video of the six below: View this post on Instagram A post shared by cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) × The left-hand batter hit two sixes during his unbeaten fifty. He now has hit the most Test sixes (34) in a calendar year, overtaking former New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum's record of 33 sixes in 2014. Also Watch: BGT 2024-25, Perth Test: Aussie Mitchell Starc WARNS India's Harshit Rana for bowling short-ball He has been a breakthrough player for India ever since making his red-ball debut in 2023. He has scored 1209 Test runs in 2024 already with potentially three more Tests available for him to further extend his tally apart from the ongoing innings. His runs in 2024 are only behind England great Joe Root who has 1,338 runs in 14 Tests he has played in 2024. Jaiswal, along with India's other opener KL Rahul, has added an unbeaten 172 runs for the first wicket in India's second innings – the second-highest opening partnership for India in Tests in Australia. The visitors ended the day with 218 runs ahead in the second innings including the first 46-run first innings lead without losing a single wicket. Jaiswal was not out 90 by the end of the day's play while Rahul was unbeaten on 62. Earlier, Australia resumed their innings from the overnight score of 67/7 and were bowled out for 104 with stand-in skipper Jasprit Bumrah taking 5/30.

BGT 2024-25, Perth Test: WATCH | Yashasvi Jaiswal hits Nathan Lyon for HUGE 100m six

Ace Australia spinner Nathan Lyon has said that India batter Virat Kohli, along with Steve Smith, is one of the best batters in the last decade. The statement comes as Kohli's form is causing concerns for India ahead of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), which starts Friday (Nov. 22) in Perth, Australia.

“Overall, look at his record. You don’t write off champions. I’ve got nothing but respect for Virat. I want to get him out, there’s no point in hiding behind that, but it’s challenging. It’s been pretty amazing competing against him for so many times,” Lyon said while talking to cricket.com.au.

“Him and Smithy (Steve Smith) are probably the best two batters in our last era of this last decade,” the off-spinner added.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-to-be-able-to-control-former-head-coach-rahul-dravids-advice-for-india-to-win-in-australia-777402">'To be able to control...,' Former head coach Rahul Dravid's advice for India to win in Australia</a>

Lyon also put aside India's recent 0-3 loss in the home Test series against New Zealand and said that one can never write off India.

“They’re dangerous all the time. They’re a side full of superstars. They’ve got so much experience, but talented youth as well and you can never write off that,” said the veteran bowler.

India have not lost a Test series against Australia since conceding the away BGT in 2014-15. In the last 10 years, India have won all four Test series played against Australia – two away and two at home.

India, however, have a lot to ponder ahead of the first Test as they will be without regular skipper Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill.

Rohit is away after the recent birth of his second child and will be available from the second Test, while Gill was injured during practice and is not expected to play in Perth. In Rohit's absence, vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah will lead the side.

After Perth, India play the day-night second Test in Adelaide from December 6-10. The third Test will be played at the Gabba in Brisbane from December 14-18 before the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) from December 26-30. The last and final Test will be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) from January 3-7.&nbsp;

Ace Australia spinner Nathan Lyon has said that India batter Virat Kohli, along with Steve Smith, is one of the best batters in the last decade. The statement comes as Kohli's form is causing concerns for India ahead of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), which starts Friday (Nov.

Ace Australia spinner Nathan Lyon has said that India batter Virat Kohli, along with Steve Smith, is one of the best batters in the last decade. The statement comes as Kohli's form is causing concerns for India ahead of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), which starts Friday (Nov. 22) in Perth, Australia. “Overall, look at his record. You don’t write off champions. I’ve got nothing but respect for Virat. I want to get him out, there’s no point in hiding behind that, but it’s challenging. It’s been pretty amazing competing against him for so many times,” Lyon said while talking to cricket.com.au. “Him and Smithy (Steve Smith) are probably the best two batters in our last era of this last decade,” the off-spinner added. Also Read: 'To be able to control...,' Former head coach Rahul Dravid's advice for India to win in Australia Lyon also put aside India's recent 0-3 loss in the home Test series against New Zealand and said that one can never write off India. “They’re dangerous all the time. They’re a side full of superstars. They’ve got so much experience, but talented youth as well and you can never write off that,” said the veteran bowler. India have not lost a Test series against Australia since conceding the away BGT in 2014-15. In the last 10 years, India have won all four Test series played against Australia – two away and two at home. India, however, have a lot to ponder ahead of the first Test as they will be without regular skipper Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill. Rohit is away after the recent birth of his second child and will be available from the second Test, while Gill was injured during practice and is not expected to play in Perth. In Rohit's absence, vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah will lead the side. After Perth, India play the day-night second Test in Adelaide from December 6-10. The third Test will be played at the Gabba in Brisbane from December 14-18 before the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) from December 26-30. The last and final Test will be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) from January 3-7.

BGT 2024-25: 'It’s challenging...,' says Nathan Lyon on Virat Kohli's form ahead of Perth Test

Ahead of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), former South Africa spinner Paul Adams reckoned that Nathan Lyon has a more 'complete game' than arch-rival R Ashwin. Both Lyon and Ashwin are modern-day greats and amongst the top 10 highest wicket-takers in the purest format. The duo are currently gearing up for the India-Australia Test series, in Australia, with the series opener scheduled to kick off on November 22 in Perth.

In a virtual interaction arranged by SA20, Adams said, "I still think Nathan Lyon has a more complete game in terms of competing in the subcontinent and in Australia or South Africa, those types of conditions, than Ashwin. He has a carrom ball that can turn the ball the opposite ways. But Lyon has been someone who has bowled with a lot of over-spin. That challenges the batters," Adams further mentioned.

In 105 Tests, Ashwin has 536 wickets – seventh-overall – whereas the Aussie veteran Lyon has 530 (eighth overall) scalps in 129 Tests.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ind-vs-sa-3rd-t20i-karthik-lauds-special-player-sanju-samson-feels-he-has-cemented-his-spot-as-opener-775804">IND vs SA: Karthik lauds 'special player' Sanju Samson, feels he has 'cemented his spot as T20I opener'</a>

Adams also spoke about Mohammed Shami and how his absence will hurt India in the upcoming BGT Down Under. Shami has been out of cricketing action since the 2023 ODI World Cup due to multiple injuries. While he marked his return to competitive cricket in Bengal's Ranji Trophy clash versus Madhya Pradesh, which started on Wednesday (Nov 13) in Indore, it remains to be seen if he can be a late addition to the Rohit Sharma-led India squad.

In this regard, Adams added "I think he will be a major miss for India, given the Australian conditions. The pace and bouncy wickets in Australia would have helped India in gaining the upper hand if Shami had been in the squad but that's not in the selector's hands as he is recovering, but I think he will be missed."

India squad for 2024/25 BGT:

Rohit Sharma (c), Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar.

Travelling reserves:&nbsp;Mukesh Kumar, Navdeep Saini, Khaleel Ahmed

Ahead of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), former South Africa spinner Paul Adams reckoned that Nathan Lyon has a more 'complete game' than arch-rival R Ashwin.

Ahead of the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), former South Africa spinner Paul Adams reckoned that Nathan Lyon has a more 'complete game' than arch-rival R Ashwin. Both Lyon and Ashwin are modern-day greats and amongst the top 10 highest wicket-takers in the purest format. The duo are currently gearing up for the India-Australia Test series, in Australia, with the series opener scheduled to kick off on November 22 in Perth. In a virtual interaction arranged by SA20, Adams said, "I still think Nathan Lyon has a more complete game in terms of competing in the subcontinent and in Australia or South Africa, those types of conditions, than Ashwin. He has a carrom ball that can turn the ball the opposite ways. But Lyon has been someone who has bowled with a lot of over-spin. That challenges the batters," Adams further mentioned. In 105 Tests, Ashwin has 536 wickets – seventh-overall – whereas the Aussie veteran Lyon has 530 (eighth overall) scalps in 129 Tests. Also read: IND vs SA: Karthik lauds 'special player' Sanju Samson, feels he has 'cemented his spot as T20I opener' Adams also spoke about Mohammed Shami and how his absence will hurt India in the upcoming BGT Down Under. Shami has been out of cricketing action since the 2023 ODI World Cup due to multiple injuries. While he marked his return to competitive cricket in Bengal's Ranji Trophy clash versus Madhya Pradesh, which started on Wednesday (Nov 13) in Indore, it remains to be seen if he can be a late addition to the Rohit Sharma-led India squad. In this regard, Adams added "I think he will be a major miss for India, given the Australian conditions. The pace and bouncy wickets in Australia would have helped India in gaining the upper hand if Shami had been in the squad but that's not in the selector's hands as he is recovering, but I think he will be missed." India squad for 2024/25 BGT: Rohit Sharma (c), Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar. Travelling reserves: Mukesh Kumar, Navdeep Saini, Khaleel Ahmed

BGT 2024/25: Nathan Lyon is a more 'complete bowler' than R Ashwin - Former SA spinner's BIG claim

Ace Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has surpassed Australian great Nathan Lyon on the wickets tally in Tests, becoming the seventh highest wicket-takers (531* and counting) with his second scalp of the day against New Zealand on day one of the Pune Test. With three wickets thus far inside the second session, Ashwin leads Lyon in the wickets category in WTC history, with his number reading 189, while Lyon has picked 187 thus far.

Playing his 104th Test, 39th in the WTC cycle since its inception in 2019, Ashwin has the best strike rate for a spinner (44.44*) and the second-best behind Proteas quick Kagiso Rabada (38.87*). In 74 innings thus far, he has 189 wickets (and counting to his name) – a tally testament to his greatness as a Test cricket legend.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-africa-jump-to-4th-position-in-wtc-standings-with-victory-in-first-test-against-bangladesh-770315">South Africa jump to 4th position in WTC standings with victory in first Test against Bangladesh</a>

On the overall tally, Ashwin is seventh on the list of most wicket-takers in Tests, second Indian after Anil Kumble (619), and fourth spinner after him, Muttiah Muralitharan (800) and Shane Warne (708).

<h2>Ashwin picks three inside two sessions on day one&nbsp;</h2>

Ashwin gave India the first breakthrough by removing New Zealand captain Tom Latham, trapped in front on 15. Next, he removed Will Young, caught by Rishabh Pant on 18, before getting the big wicket in player-in-form Devon Conway, caught behind on 76.

Conway’s wicket was the moment he surpassed Lyon on the overall tally.&nbsp;

However, his fellow offie, Washington Sundar, picked two wickets just on the stroke of lunch, removing the dangerous-looking Rachin Ravindra on 65 and keeper-batter Tom Blundell on just three, both deliveries being unplayable.&nbsp;

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T. I. M. B. E. R! 🎯 
 
Cracker of a ball! 👌 👌 
 
Washington Sundar with a breakthrough 🙌 🙌 
 
Live ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/YVjSnKCtlI">https://t.co/YVjSnKCtlI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvNZ</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/Sundarwashi5?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Sundarwashi5</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/IDFCFIRSTBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDFCFIRSTBank</a> <a href="https://t.co/OC8VS7fnwT">pic.twitter.com/OC8VS7fnwT</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1849370064266629590?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Despite New Zealand trying to build on the momentum, they lost a bit of it in a few overs, with their scorecard at lunch on day one reading 201 for five in 62 overs.&nbsp;

Daryll Mitchell and Glenn Phillips are now on the crease.

<h3>Ashwin-Lyon face-off</h3>

Ashwin and Lyon will face off in the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar series, starting with the first Test in Perth on November 22.

As India plays five Tests Down Under, Ashwin and Lyon will cross paths several times in the marquee series, motivating the other to play out of his skin and do better, making it a mouth-watering contest for the fans watching the world over.&nbsp;

India will face Australia in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney in their remaining four Tests.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Ace Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has surpassed Australian great Nathan Lyon on the wickets tally in Tests, becoming the seventh highest wicket-takers (531* and counting) with his second scalp of the day against New Zealand on day one of the Pune Test.

Ace Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has surpassed Australian great Nathan Lyon on the wickets tally in Tests, becoming the seventh highest wicket-takers (531* and counting) with his second scalp of the day against New Zealand on day one of the Pune Test. With three wickets thus far inside the second session, Ashwin leads Lyon in the wickets category in WTC history, with his number reading 189, while Lyon has picked 187 thus far. Playing his 104th Test, 39th in the WTC cycle since its inception in 2019, Ashwin has the best strike rate for a spinner (44.44*) and the second-best behind Proteas quick Kagiso Rabada (38.87*). In 74 innings thus far, he has 189 wickets (and counting to his name) – a tally testament to his greatness as a Test cricket legend. ALSO READ: South Africa jump to 4th position in WTC standings with victory in first Test against Bangladesh On the overall tally, Ashwin is seventh on the list of most wicket-takers in Tests, second Indian after Anil Kumble (619), and fourth spinner after him, Muttiah Muralitharan (800) and Shane Warne (708). Ashwin picks three inside two sessions on day one Ashwin gave India the first breakthrough by removing New Zealand captain Tom Latham, trapped in front on 15. Next, he removed Will Young, caught by Rishabh Pant on 18, before getting the big wicket in player-in-form Devon Conway, caught behind on 76. Conway’s wicket was the moment he surpassed Lyon on the overall tally. However, his fellow offie, Washington Sundar, picked two wickets just on the stroke of lunch, removing the dangerous-looking Rachin Ravindra on 65 and keeper-batter Tom Blundell on just three, both deliveries being unplayable. T. I. M. B. E. R! 🎯 Cracker of a ball! 👌 👌 Washington Sundar with a breakthrough 🙌 🙌 Live ▶️ https://t.co/YVjSnKCtlI #TeamIndia | #INDvNZ | @Sundarwashi5 | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/OC8VS7fnwT — BCCI (@BCCI) October 24, 2024 × Despite New Zealand trying to build on the momentum, they lost a bit of it in a few overs, with their scorecard at lunch on day one reading 201 for five in 62 overs. Daryll Mitchell and Glenn Phillips are now on the crease. Ashwin-Lyon face-off Ashwin and Lyon will face off in the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar series, starting with the first Test in Perth on November 22. As India plays five Tests Down Under, Ashwin and Lyon will cross paths several times in the marquee series, motivating the other to play out of his skin and do better, making it a mouth-watering contest for the fans watching the world over. India will face Australia in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney in their remaining four Tests. (With inputs from agencies)

IND v NZ 2024: Ravichandran Ashwin surpasses Nathan Lyon on wickets tally in Tests, WTC history

Nathan Lyon admits feeling responsible for carrying on the craft of spin bowling left behind by late veteran cricketer Shane Warne. Speaking ahead of the marquee Test series against India starting late November (22), Lyon said he felt his duty to keep the spin bowling ‘cool’ after Warne’s sudden death two years ago.

With 530 Test wickets to his name, Lyon, 36, insists he has no plans to retire soon, with him eyeing a series win in India and England before hanging his boots.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-nz-2nd-test-sarfaraz-khan-hits-maiden-test-hundred-in-bengaluru-as-india-cuts-deficit-internet-reacts-768888">IND v NZ 2nd Test: Sarfaraz Khan hits maiden Test hundred in Bengaluru as India cuts deficit, internet reacts</a>

Although Lyon admitted he is not worried about spin bowling after he goes or who takes over his place in the Test side, the right-arm spinner wants to be the flag-bearer of this section of bowling till he’s actively playing.

"I do see the responsibility of flying the flag for the spinners around the country, there is no hiding behind that," Lyon said.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Especially with the passing of Warnie, I feel like there is a big role for me to ensure that spin stays cool.

"I am not cool in any way, but if I can try and promote spin bowling and promote how great it is to be a spin bowler ... it's pretty cool,” he continued.

Meanwhile, much like Warnie, who was known for his unbelievable skillset and more so for his longevity, having played and dominated in the pace-bowling era since his debut, Lyon falls under the same bracket, having played 100 Tests straight, although he missed a few Tests during the away Ashes last year with a rare calf injury.

Lyon revealed a close-net conversation with his father helped him realise the duty to promote spin bowling since Warne’s death.

"Just having that conversation and understanding we're role models in so many different ways to so many different people around the world," he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;"And if we can do our little bit to hopefully make people better cricketers or people, we're doing our job."

<h2>Lyon up for Border-Gavaskar series</h2>

Having last won the BGT nearly a decade ago at home, Lyon is keen on tasting success against the high-flying Indian Team again. Given India beat Australia in Australia twice in the past two outings, an unbelievable feat, they will enter the contest this time as firm favourites.

The first Test begins in Perth, with Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney scheduled to host the remaining ones.

Meanwhile, India and Australia are leading the World Test Championship (WTC) standings in the current cycle.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Nathan Lyon admits feeling responsible for carrying on the craft of spin bowling left behind by late veteran cricketer Shane Warne. Speaking ahead of the marquee Test series against India starting late November (22), Lyon said he felt his duty to keep the spin bowling ‘cool’ after Warne’s sudden death two years ago.

Nathan Lyon admits feeling responsible for carrying on the craft of spin bowling left behind by late veteran cricketer Shane Warne. Speaking ahead of the marquee Test series against India starting late November (22), Lyon said he felt his duty to keep the spin bowling ‘cool’ after Warne’s sudden death two years ago. With 530 Test wickets to his name, Lyon, 36, insists he has no plans to retire soon, with him eyeing a series win in India and England before hanging his boots. ALSO READ: IND v NZ 2nd Test: Sarfaraz Khan hits maiden Test hundred in Bengaluru as India cuts deficit, internet reacts Although Lyon admitted he is not worried about spin bowling after he goes or who takes over his place in the Test side, the right-arm spinner wants to be the flag-bearer of this section of bowling till he’s actively playing. "I do see the responsibility of flying the flag for the spinners around the country, there is no hiding behind that," Lyon said. "Especially with the passing of Warnie, I feel like there is a big role for me to ensure that spin stays cool. "I am not cool in any way, but if I can try and promote spin bowling and promote how great it is to be a spin bowler ... it's pretty cool,” he continued. Meanwhile, much like Warnie, who was known for his unbelievable skillset and more so for his longevity, having played and dominated in the pace-bowling era since his debut, Lyon falls under the same bracket, having played 100 Tests straight, although he missed a few Tests during the away Ashes last year with a rare calf injury. Lyon revealed a close-net conversation with his father helped him realise the duty to promote spin bowling since Warne’s death. "Just having that conversation and understanding we're role models in so many different ways to so many different people around the world," he said. "And if we can do our little bit to hopefully make people better cricketers or people, we're doing our job." Lyon up for Border-Gavaskar series Having last won the BGT nearly a decade ago at home, Lyon is keen on tasting success against the high-flying Indian Team again. Given India beat Australia in Australia twice in the past two outings, an unbelievable feat, they will enter the contest this time as firm favourites. The first Test begins in Perth, with Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney scheduled to host the remaining ones. Meanwhile, India and Australia are leading the World Test Championship (WTC) standings in the current cycle. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia’s Nathan Lyon happy to carry spin legacy following Shane Warne’s death

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