Australia’s spinner, Nathan Lyon, encountered a “significant calf strain” during the second Ashes Test, casting doubt on his availability for the remainder of the series.
On day two, Lyon experienced discomfort while fielding a ball, necessitating assistance from the physiotherapist as he made his way back to the dressing room.
Since then, the 35-year-old has been unable to return to the field and was observed using crutches when he arrived at the ground on day three.
Cricket Australia stated that Lyon will need a period of rehabilitation after the conclusion of the current match.
A decision regarding his participation in the remaining matches will be made following the conclusion of this game.
Lyon may still be able to bat later in the ongoing match, if required.
During England’s innings, Lyon achieved his 496th Test wicket by dismissing opener Zak Crawley.
In the previous week’s first Test at Edgbaston, the off-spinner contributed significantly with eight wickets in Australia’s victory.
Australia batter Steve Smith expressed his concern, saying, “We will miss him for this game, and his absence could extend for a considerable duration. It didn’t look promising. Losing him would be a significant blow to us.”
Lyon, in his 100th consecutive Test match, has joined an elite group as only the seventh player in history and the first bowler to achieve this milestone.
After Lyon’s departure, Australia managed to claim three England wickets for 34 runs, leaving the home side at 278-4 at the end of the day, trailing by 138 runs.
Mitchell Starc dismissed England captain Ben Stokes in the opening over of day three.
The Australian squad currently has only one other spinner, 22-year-old off-spinner Todd Murphy, who made his debut in February and has appeared in four Tests.
Murphy’s impressive performance in his maiden Test against India yielded figures of 7-124, and he continued to take seven more wickets throughout the series.
Stay tuned for live coverage of day three at Lord’s.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Ashes participation
What happened to Nathan Lyon during the second Ashes Test?
Nathan Lyon suffered a “significant calf strain” while running to field a ball, which forced him to be helped off the field by the physiotherapist.
Will Nathan Lyon be able to continue playing in the Ashes series?
The extent of Nathan Lyon’s injury will be determined after the current match. Cricket Australia will assess his availability for the remainder of the series once the game concludes.
Can Nathan Lyon still bat in the ongoing match despite his injury?
If required, Nathan Lyon may still be able to bat later in the ongoing match, despite his calf strain.
How significant is Nathan Lyon’s contribution to the Australian team?
Nathan Lyon is a key spinner for Australia, and his absence due to injury would be a significant blow to the team’s performance.
How many Test wickets has Nathan Lyon taken so far?
Nathan Lyon has taken 496 Test wickets, with his most recent wicket being the dismissal of opener Zak Crawley during England’s innings.
Who is the only other spinner in Australia’s squad?
The only other spinner in Australia’s squad is Todd Murphy, a 22-year-old off-spinner who made his debut in February and has played four Tests.
How has Todd Murphy performed in previous matches?
In his first Test against India, Todd Murphy returned figures of 7-124 and continued to take seven more wickets throughout the series, showcasing a promising performance.
What was the score at the end of day three of the second Ashes Test?
At the close of day three, England was at 278-4, trailing Australia by 138 runs.
5 comments
Wow, Lyon’s 100th consecutive test match! That’s some serious dedication. It’s a shame he had to leave the field with an injury. Australia needs him. Good luck to Todd Murphy, the other spinner in the squad. He’s got big shoes to fill!
The Ashes without Lyon? That’s gonna be tough. He’s a game-changer. But hey, injuries happen. Hope he gets the rest and rehab he needs. Can’t wait to see the rest of the series unfold.
Lyon is a legend, mate! He’s taken so many wickets for Australia. This injury is a massive blow to the team. Let’s hope he can still bat in the match. Get well soon, Lyon!
Omg! Lyon’s got a calf strain?! That’s not good. Australia’s gonna miss him for sure. Hoping for a speedy recovery so he can get back on the field. #GoAustralia
oh no! Nathon Lyon got hurt? that’s a real bummer for the team. hope he can still play in the ashes series. fingers crossed!