Nathan Lyon primed for Australia's new era

Lyon has 306 Test wickets to his name.

Nathan Lyon. (Getty)

Nathan Lyon is now looked upto to play a key role as Australia are entering into a new era where they are aiming to play cricket without being outspoken and aggressive. Not getting into any heated verbal confrontations is one of their main focus and Lyon being a mentally tough cricketer is expected to play a big role in the same. 

Australia is starting a new era without the likes of Steve Smith and David Warner, however, Lyon is ready to stand up and grasp what he believes is "a great opportunity" to usher in a new wave of talent during an "exciting time for Australian cricket".

"It’s a new chapter, a new era under Justin Langer and Tim Paine. I think it is going to be a very exciting time for Australian cricket," Lyon said.

"There is a lot of opportunity for young players and young batters especially to really stand up and make heroes of themselves.

"It’s going to be an exciting time for Australian cricket, I know I am very excited about it and being one of the leaders of the side, especially the most experienced one I’ve got a big role to play."

"We’re still going to have a good side going over there, the likes of Mitchell Starc and myself are going to have to lead the way with the ball," Lyon said.

"It’s a good challenge for us, Pakistan play some decent cricket over there in Dubai. It’s going to be a different challenge and a lot warmer than here in Canberra."

Sri Lanka will play Australia in the first Test at Canberra from February 1. Lyon is very excited regarding the Test match as he will be playing his first Test here. 

"It’s going to be exciting, for the first ever Test match here in Canberra. Hopefully being a part of that is going to be a dream come true," Lyon said.

"Working out here I always dreamt of playing cricket for Australia but to play a Test match here for your country in front of a lot of family and friends will be very special.

"I always dreamt of it. I’ve been lucky to play an ODI out here, but to play a Test match, that is the pinnacle for me, so it will be good fun.

"I’ve already had a lot of text messages asking for tickets."

Lyon is putting his best foot forward for selection keeping his eyes in next year's World Cup.  "Especially with the World Cup around the corner, you want to put your hand up for selection and make sure you’re a part of that World Cup squad," Lyon said.

"It’s obviously a dream to be a part of that and one of my girls. I’ve just got to keep performing well and keep taking my opportunities."

 
 

By Anshuman Roy - 24 Aug, 2018

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