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Australian off-spinner Nathan Lyon expressed profound frustration after being left out of the playing XI for the second Ashes Test against England at the Gabba, the second day-night Test in a row he has missed. Despite holding an excellent pink-ball record of 43 wickets at 25.62, selectors opted for an all-pace attack, bringing in Michael Neser. The decision, which marks only the second home Test. Lyon has missed since his 2011 debut, signals a major shift in the selectors’ thinking regarding the role of spin in Australian pink-ball Tests.
Nathan Lyon speaks out in frustration over his exclusion from the pink-ball Test
Lyon learned of the omission about 30 minutes after arriving at the ground, following a pitch huddle involving Steve Smith, coach Andrew McDonald, and chair of selectors George Bailey. His reaction was blunt and honest, telling the broadcaster that he was absolutely filthy when informed of the decision by Bailey. While acknowledging he couldn’t change the decision and expressing his desire to support the team, Lyon admitted his disappointment and revealed he hadn’t yet been able to have a detailed conversation with the coach or chief selector.
“To be honest I haven’t really sat down with Ronnie [Andrew McDonald] or George yet. I’m letting things settle down in my own head… I’m not the first player to miss a Test match and I won’t be the last. But, yeah, obviously pretty gutted because I know the role that I can play within Australian cricket and especially a venue like this.” Lyon said.
The selection choice favored local Queensland seamer Michael Neser, who played his third Test, all of which have been day-night fixtures. Neser’s inclusion as a “Gabba specialist” was deemed necessary as Australia wanted an all-pace attack for the twilight conditions, despite the general concern that the pink ball can go soft, reducing the need for constant pace. Former Australian great Ricky Ponting voiced his surprise, stating: “for someone like Nathan Lyon who is such a seasoned professional with a good record at the Gabba, I think it’s a massive call for the Aussies to make.”
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Ashes 2025-26: George Bailey defends the controversial move
As per the Fox Cricket, Chief selector George Bailey defended the controversial decision, terming it a “very much a one Test decision” and guaranteeing Lyon’s return for the next match: “Nath will play in Adelaide.” Bailey justified the all-pace attack by referencing the specific conditions and management of resources in a day-night Test, explaining that the decision factored in the expected overs, the availability of the new ball, and the likelihood of using seamers when it gets dark. However, the explanation rings hollow for many given this is the second time in quick succession Lyon has been benched in a day-night Test, following his omission in Jamaica against West Indies earlier in the year.
This recurring pattern highlights a fundamental shift in Australian selection thinking, prioritizing an extra seamer for swing and twilight conditions over the control and subtle variation offered by the spinner. Lyon, who has consistently stated that he believes he can be successful in all conditions, had already noted a “diminishing role for spinners in Australia” due to seam-friendly surfaces.
Despite his frustration, Bailey remains unapologetic, stating, “Nath will disagree with the decision, and that’s perfectly okay… I have no qualms about players feeling like they can impact the game and the fact of the matter is he could have.” The omission clearly signals that Lyon can no longer be assured of a spot when Australia plays under lights, even at home.
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