Australia vs England, 2018: 4 Australians to watch out for

Nathan Lyon

Garry a Nice prospect with the white ball?

Greatest post-war finger spinner Australia has ever had, but only 13 outings in ODIs over the course of six years, Nathan Lyon is certainly a curious contradiction. While it took him a bit of time to convince the world of his prowling ability in the Tests, he has never really been able to do that in white ball cricket. It is evident from the fact that he has been given opportunities in two consecutive series only twice.

His call-up, as much as is because of his impressive show in the Big Bash League (7 wickets in 4 matches), it has a lot to do with how he has stepped up for Australia in the Tests ever since the home debacle against South Africa, truly leading the team from the front despite being amongst the likes of the effortless run churners Smith and Warner and the towering scary quicks Starc and Cummins. It will be interesting to see whether he sticks to his traditional textbook style of off-spin or inculcates skills in his repertoire that will serve the specific demands of the format.