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'I'm Backing Him' - Nathan Lyon Sides With David Warner Amid Johnson's Column Outburst

image-lq29oayuMitchell Johnson, David Warner (X.com)

Cricket Australia witnessed a huge controversy after former fast bowler Mitchell Johnson criticized David Warner's selection for the upcoming Test series against Pakistan. 

In an explosive column, Johnson questioned Warner's authority to choose his farewell test and also dug into the Sandpaper scandal, which tainted the batter's image.

In the aftermath of the controversy, Cricket Australia was left divided. While some sided with Johnson, many stood in solidarity with Warner, stating the past dues are served. 

Amid the ongoing saga, veteran Australian spinner Nathan Lyon sided with Warner. Ahead of the first test against Pakistan, Lyon addressed the media and confessed that he is backing the opening batter wholeheartedly. 

"Knowing David for the last 13-14 years, when he seems to be backed into a corner he seems to play his best cricket, so I am backing him. I don't think the Australian public realise the importance of David over the last 13 years or however long it is (that he has played)," Lyon told reporters.

Lyon reckoned that fans often underestimate Warner's contribution to the Australian cricket team. He has been a teammate to Warner for the past decade, and have watched his brilliance up close.

The spinner also lauded Warner's longevity and said he is looking forward to seeing him thrive in the upcoming series, which could possibly be Warner's last one in the whites. 

“I think I have played over 100 Test matches with David and to see what he has been able to do for Australia is quite amazing so, I am looking forward to see him come out here, that is for sure," Lyon added.


David Warner-Mitchell Johnson feud widens

Meanwhile, David Warner also broke his silence on the Mitchell Johnson saga. He says everyone is entitled to an opinion, and he respects it. As far as the drama is concerned, the batter wants to stay away from verbal battle and would rather silence the critics on the field.

Needless to say, the drama is unlikely to end anytime soon. Johnson is on a spree to bring down Warner as he made additional disturbing revelations about what fueled him to write the explosive column.

Apparently, Warner sent a "personal" text message to Johnson, which filled the latter with rage as he sought to retaliate in a more candid and brutal fashion.

Also, the former pacer has been dropped from the commentary panel for the upcoming test series between Australia and Pakistan, days after the controversy first came to light.