When did Australia's Nathan Lyon last miss a home Test?
What's the story
In a major development, star spinner Nathan Lyon was left out of Australia's Playing XI for the 2nd Ashes Test against England at The Gabba, Brisbane. This marked the first instance of Lyon missing a home Test since 2012, according to Cricbuzz. The hosts have also been without their regular captain Pat Cummins, who is out with a back injury. Here are further details.
Game plan
Australia's bowling strategy for the day-night Test
The Australian team opted for an all-pace attack for the 2nd Test in Brisbane, a day-night affair. Stand-in captain Smith explained that they were looking to exploit the pink ball's potential, especially under lights later in the game. He said, "We play in the night a lot and thought that was going to be the best attack to take 20 wickets in this fixture." England won the toss and elected to bat first.
Historical context
Absence from Australia's XI
Lyon has been dropped from Australia's Playing XI for only the second time in a home Test. He last missed a home Test in 2012 against India at WACA, Perth. He had played 71 consecutive home Tests until the 2025/26 Ashes (1st Test). Notably, Lyon was also left out of the Day-Night Test against West Indies in Jamaica last year.
Player reaction
Response to exclusion from the squad
Reacting to his exclusion from the XI against the Windies, Lyon had said he was disappointed on several levels. He added, "I believe I can play a role in any conditions, and I still honestly believe that." The 38-year-old cricketer is just two away from surpassing Glenn McGrath's tally of 563 Test wickets and moving into second place on Australia's all-time list behind Shane Warne.
Career
A look at his career
In a stellar 14-year career, Lyon has been part of Australia's several momentous Test wins. He has been their specialist spinner in the format since 2011. In 140 Tests, the off-spinner has taken a staggering 562 wickets at an average of 30.16. His tally includes 24 fifers and 5 match hauls of 10 wickets. As many as 354 of his Test wickets (at 24.11) have come in a winning cause.