Cricket News

Nathan Lyon’s further participation in Ashes 2023 doubtful after picking up calf injury, ruled out of second ongoing Test

In a big blow for Australia, Nathan Lyon will play no further part in the second Ashes Test at Lords after he picked up a calf injury. The ace spinner who has been a titan in Tests for Australia suffered the injury while he was running towards the ball after the tea session. Speaking on the strain Cricket Australia termed as a significant development in a statement that they put out on the third day.

“He will require a period of rehabilitation after this match is concluded,” it said. “A decision regarding his availability for the remainder of the series will be made at the conclusion of the game.” said the statement. Lyon arrived on crutches to Lords on Friday. Ben Stokes gave him a pat on the back and consoled him before the Australian team broke into a huddle. Travis Head bowled some overs in place of Lyon and in a pleasant surprise, he picked up a couple of wickets of England’s lower order.

Todd Murphy could replace Nathan Lyon if he is unfit for the third Ashes Test

In a stunning turnaround for England, they ended Day 2 on 278-4. The famed England batting lineup would have liked to get close to Australia’s score. England fell for Australia’s short-ball ploy and also due to some good bowling from Head. The Three Lions will look back at this and lament over their poor shot selection. Notably, Bazball was criticised heavily after England’s 2 wicket loss in the first Test at Edgbaston.

Australia have spin backup in the form of Todd Murphy. The off spinner showed what he could do in India where he played his debut series. Murphy picked up 14 scalps at an average of 25,21. He was the fourth most successful spinner in the series. Australia played Matthew Kuhemann as well. India beat Australia in the series 2-1. However the Kangaroos got their revenge soon.

Australia hammered India by 209 runs at the Oval to claim the World Test Championship. The Kangaroos have also got a valuable 1-0 lead at the moment. The Lords Test would also likely go to a last day finish considering the way it has transpired till now. England played four seamers at Lords and dropped Moeen Ali after his below par outing at Edgbaston.