Could Nathan Lyon Be Absent From the Ashes Opener?
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Synopsis
As the Ashes opener approaches, former Australia captain Mark Taylor raises eyebrows over Nathan Lyon's potential exclusion. With critical decisions looming, the Australian selectors might prioritize all-rounders. Will Lyon be sidelined? Discover Taylor's insights on this surprising twist in the Ashes narrative.
Key Takeaways
- Nathan Lyon may not play in the first Ashes Test.
- Cameron Green's fitness is crucial for team selection.
- Lyon holds a record at Perth Stadium.
- Jake Weatherald is a strong contender for debut.
- Selector decisions could significantly impact team dynamics.
New Delhi, Nov 9 (NationPress) Former Australia captain Mark Taylor believes it wouldn’t be shocking if veteran spinner Nathan Lyon is excluded from the lineup for the inaugural Ashes Test, which kicks off on November 21 in Perth.
Despite being on the brink of his 140th Test appearance, Taylor suggests Lyon might sit out if the Australian selectors choose to include an all-rounder like Cameron Green to enhance both batting strength and seam bowling options.
"If Green is healthy, he will be included. By 'healthy,' I mean fit enough to bowl. Unfortunately, I see Webster missing out. They must reintegrate Green into the squad, but he needs to be able to bowl a few overs. Webster may be the unfortunate one to miss out," Taylor commented.
“Don't be taken aback, though, Australia has already made such decisions this year; if someone like Nathan Lyon doesn’t feature in the first Test,” Taylor remarked, as reported by Nine's Wide World of Sports on Sunday.
Lyon, at 37, holds the record for the most Test wickets at Perth Stadium, with 29 scalps at an average of under 21. “The only alternative is to field all their fast bowlers along with Webster and Green, thereby skipping an off-spinner,” he added.
“They have Travis Head and Beau who can bowl a few off-spin deliveries. They might consider that for Perth, although I don't particularly favor it. I believe Nathan should play, but it wouldn’t be a surprise if he doesn't," Taylor concluded.
Additionally, he expressed his hope for uncapped batter Jake Weatherald to debut as a top-order batsman in this pivotal first Test and suggested that dropping teenaged batter Sam Konstas could be a possibility.
“I’m not surprised he hasn’t made the final 15. I genuinely hope that Jake Weatherald gets to play. There’s a lot of talk regarding the batting lineup, but I really want to see him play. They need to settle on an opening batting combination. Usman (Khawaja) is approaching 39 in two weeks, so his time is limited.”
“They need to bring in a younger player - Jake is not that young, to be fair, he is 31. However, he still has time ahead of him and deserves that selection. Kudos to him; I hope he plays at the top of the order,” Taylor concluded.
Point of View
It is essential to remain impartial while providing insights into the evolving cricket landscape. Mark Taylor's analysis highlights the critical decisions ahead for the Australian cricket team as they prepare for the Ashes. Balancing veteran experience with emerging talent is crucial for maintaining competitiveness.
NationPress
11/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why might Nathan Lyon be left out of the Ashes opener?
Former Australia captain Mark Taylor suggests Lyon could be sidelined if selectors opt for an all-rounder like Cameron Green to strengthen batting and bowling options.
Who could replace Nathan Lyon in the Test squad?
Cameron Green is a strong candidate for inclusion, as well as other players who can contribute both with bat and ball.
What are Nathan Lyon’s records at Perth Stadium?
Nathan Lyon is the all-time leading Test wicket-taker at Perth Stadium, with 29 wickets at an impressive average of under 21.
What is Mark Taylor's opinion on the Australian batting lineup?
Taylor advocates for Jake Weatherald to debut and emphasizes the need for a stable opening batting combination, as Usman Khawaja is nearing the end of his career.
How does Taylor view the selection strategy for the Ashes?
Taylor believes that while Lyon should play, he acknowledges the selectors may choose to prioritize all their fast bowlers along with all-rounders.
