South Africa vs Australia 2018, 1st Test, Day 2: 5 things we learnt from the day

#3 Nathan Lyon continues his impressive form

Nathan Lyon was the highest wicket-taker in 2017 (63 wickets). He bowled superbly throughout Ashes series and was one of Australia’s unsung heroes in that series.

With Maharaj finding turn on a slow pitch, it was almost certain that Lyon would have a big impact in this game The South African openers saw off the new pair of Starc and Hazlewood. However, things changed once Nathan Lyon was introduced into the attack. The off-spinner was brought into the attack as early as the 8th over of the innings and he struck immediately.

He picked up two wickets in his first over as he dismissed Dean Elgar and Hashim Amla. Elgar was caught and bowled brilliantly, while Amla was caught at short-leg of the inside-edge. He then came back to prize out Quinton de Kock who was looking good. The South African wicket-keeper was out bowled.

Lyon bowled beautifully throughout the day as he constantly troubled the South African batsmen. He was getting the ball to drift, dip and turn. He was the pick of the Australian bowlers.