Last Updated on 1 year by Charbel Coorey

Cricket News: Will Nathan Lyon play again in the 2023 Ashes? | Is Nathan Lyon ruled out of the 2023 Ashes?

Much of the talk heading into the Lord’s Test was Nathan Lyon’s achievement. The offspinner became the first bowler in history to play 100 consecutive Test matches, providing Australia with such great value in just about all those matches.

Then, in a case of bitter irony, injury struck. In a moment that mirrors Glenn McGrath in 2005, Lyon injured his calf running in from the square leg boundary to field a top-edged pull. Given Lyon’s control and wicket-taking threat so far in this series, his injury could prove to be a huge blow to Australia’s Ashes hopes, with the fast bowlers often unable to keep England quiet.

Will Nathan Lyon be ruled out of the 2023 Ashes?

According to Cricket Australia, Lyon has suffered a severe calf strain, and will assess him further after the Lord’s Test. However, given how challenging calf injuries can be, the offspinner is likely to miss out on the remainder of the series.

The news comes as a blow to Australia. Lyon has been the team’s best bowler so far in this Ashes series, taking nine wickets. Also, Lyon conceded just 2.69 per over in his 13 overs in England’s first innings at Lord’s, which included the vital wicket of Zak Crawley – his 496th Test wicket – as the opening partnership threatened to go well over 100.

Todd Murphy, who impressed many including R Ashwin in India earlier this year, is set to slot into the XI should Lyon miss any action. He took 14 wickets in the four Tests in India in February and March, with his consistency of length a key feature of his bowling. Thus, his battle with England’s “Bazball” style of play will make for an intriguing watch.