Nathan Lyon Ruled Out as Australia Announces Squad for Remaining Ashes 2023 Tests
Australia have named their squad for remaining Ashes Tests [AP Photo]
Australia have announced their squad for the remaining three Tests of the Ashes 2023 that is currently underway in England. As expected, veteran off-spinner Nathan Lyon has been officially ruled out for the remainder of the series after sustaining a significant calf tear while fielding on the second day of play at Lord's.
Nathan Lyon out, Todd Murphy in as Australia name squad for Ashes 2023
Australia's revised 16-player squad for the remaining three Tests will not feature any additional replacements, Cricket Australia announced. Lyon will be replaced by Todd Murphy, who was on the bench for the first two Ashes Tests. The injured spinner has expressed his confidence in the prodigious Murphy to hold his ground against England's robust batting line-up.
Coach Andrew McDonald also expressed his confidence in the abilities of Todd Murphy, stating that he is well-prepared to make an immediate impact in the upcoming third Test at Headingley, set to commence on Thursday.
Murphy, who showcased his potential during his debut Test tour of India earlier this year, impressed with 14 wickets at an average of 25.21 across the four Tests, notably dismissing Virat Kohli on four occasions.
In addition to Lyon's absence, reserve batter Matthew Renshaw has been released from the Australian squad. Despite this, Renshaw will stay in England and remain available to the team in the event of any injuries within the touring party.
Queensland wicketkeeper Jimmy Peirson, on the other hand, will be present as cover for Josh Inglis. Inglis had returned home to Perth following the first Test at Edgbaston to witness the birth of his first child.
Meanwhile, Australia holds a commanding 2-0 series lead, clinching a stunning 43-run victory on the final day of the second Test at Lord's. The match witnessed a magnificent batting display from England captain Ben Stokes, who gave a deja vu moment by almost replicating his memorable knock from the Headingley Test in 2019.
The southpaw blazed nine sixes in a breathtaking innings of 155 off just 214 balls, but it was Australia who held their nerve in the end to secure a win.
Australia squad for third Test:
Pat Cummins (c), Steve Smith (vc), Alex Carey (wk), Usman Khawaja, David Warner, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Mitch Marsh, Scott Boland, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Jimmy Peirson (wk), Mitchell Starc
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