As Australia readies itself to defend the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) crown at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground starting June 11, veteran off-spinner Nathan Lyon has urged caution, reminding his teammates not to underestimate South Africa’s powerful batting unit. While the Aussies are considered the favourites heading into the final, Lyon remains wary of the Proteas, who have been in fine touch throughout the WTC cycle.
Speaking during Australia’s training session at Beckenham, Lyon acknowledged that the team’s experience in high-pressure matches — from 50-over World Cups to the T20 triumphs and their WTC final win in 2023 — could offer an edge. But, in his words, that edge only lasts until the first ball is bowled.
“Having players who’ve won major tournaments helps, no doubt. But when you step onto the field in a one-off Test like this, history means very little,” Nathan Lyon told ICC. “South Africa have a dangerous batting order and a quality bowling unit, so this will be a serious challenge — especially with the Dukes ball in English conditions.”
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The Proteas’ current red-ball form backs Lyon’s concerns. Left-handed opener Ryan Rickelton heads into the final on the back of a massive 259-run knock in his previous outing. Meanwhile, skipper Temba Bavuma and middle-order stalwart David Bedingham have each piled up over 600 runs during the WTC campaign. Lyon, having closely followed their warm-up matches, singled out Rickelton, Bedingham, and Aiden Markram as key players to watch.
“They’re all class acts,” Natahn Lyon said. “It would be foolish to underestimate what they bring to the table.” On a personal note, Lyon confirmed he has fully recovered from the hip injury that kept him out since February. “I’ve been bowling for over a month now. My rhythm’s back, the body feels great, and I’m ready,” he assured.
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With both teams boasting world-class bowling arsenals and the added challenge of swing-friendly Dukes balls, Lyon anticipates a gripping contest at the Home of Cricket. “It’ll be two of the best bowling attacks going head-to-head. That’s the kind of battle every batter dreams of facing,” he concluded.
