Steve Smith, the stand-in Australian captain, explained why seam-bowling all-rounder Michael Neser was brought in for the second Ashes Test instead of seasoned Nathan Lyon. For the first time since 2012, the seasoned off-spinner did not play in a home Test match.
Lyon was left off the team for the second Test, which was held last week at Brisbane’s famous Gabba, after bowling just two overs in the first Test in Perth. Smith pointed out that it was a calculated move because Australia was able to take advantage of the seamer-friendly circumstances in the pink-ball Test by including Neser in the starting lineup. The former added that Neser’s batting prowess gave the Australian team more depth.
“He performed a fantastic job. I’m hoping so. We had several options, it was close, and it’s definitely nothing against Nathan. He has long been our spinner. Michael, in my opinion, provides something unique. In the press conference following the game, Smith stated, “We can bring the keeper up, bowl stump to stump, keep things tight, and make you take risks when the ball’s probably not quite as quick or a little bit skiddy.”
Neser’s function in the middle, according to Smith, was essentially the same as Lyon’s.
In the first and second innings, the 35-year-old took one and five wickets, respectively. He bowled crisp lines and lengths, rewarding his patience.
“He obviously extended our batting, which we thought would be crucial as well,” he continued. “It was a kind of similar role as what Nathan would play, obviously not a spinner, but a similar role.”
Being excluded from the starting lineup did not sit well with Lyon. He voiced his annoyance at the change in an interview conducted during the second Test. But anticipate a significant contribution from Australia’s second-highest wicket-taker in the format come the third Test.
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