Australia Drops Lyon for All-Pace Attack in Second Ashes Test

Australia's selectors made a bold move by dropping veteran off-spinner Nathan Lyon from the playing XI for the second Test of the 2025-26 Ashes series against England, opting for an all-pace attack in the day-night match at the Gabba in Brisbane. The decision, announced ahead of the December 4 start, marks the first time Lyon has missed a home Test since 2012 and comes after he bowled just two overs in Australia's victory in the series opener in Perth last month.

Lyon, Australia's third-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket with a strong record at the Gabba of 52 wickets at an average of under 29, was replaced by Queensland seamer Michael Neser. The 38-year-old spinner, who also leads the list for most wickets in the World Test Championship and ranks second in day-night Tests with 43 scalps at 25.63, learned of his exclusion shortly after arriving at the ground. In an interview with Channel 7 during Day 1 play, Lyon expressed clear disappointment. "I come to ground pretty early, about 12 o'clock, and found out about 12:30," he said. Describing his conversation with chief selector George Bailey as "absolutely filthy," Lyon added, "I'm pretty gutted because I know the role that I...