I'm not really concerned if Ben Stokes plays the Ashes or not: Nathan Lyon

As the opening Test of the 2017-18 Ashes series is approaching, both the teams are sweating hard on the field to give it their best shot. The hosts Australia have their priorities and combinations set to reclaim the prestigious Urn. On the other hand, the visiting English side still looks a bit confused over the involvement of their star player Ben Stokes in the series. Meanwhile, Aussie premier spinner Nathan Lyon said that he is not really concerned if Stokes plays the Ashes or not.

Lyon admitted that the 26-year-old is a world-class player and one of the best all-rounders in the world currently. But he also stated that the all-rounder’s participation in the tour is a cause of worry for the England team and management and not him. The off-spinner also revealed that he is very excited and happy with the selection of Tim Paine as the gloveman in the upcoming series.

I’m not concerned

Stokes’ participation in the Ashes has been the most debated and discussed topic around the series this time. The matter is still being investigated and therefore Stokes is suspended from the English side till the probe is completed. And as per reports, the decision regarding Stokes is expected to come this week. Lyon feels that this whole matter is a concern for the visitors and not him.

“That’s up to England and I don’t really care what they do about that if I’m being brutally honest. He’s a world-class player, you want to play against the best players in the world so if he comes out, we’ll have our plans for him and we’ll go out and play some cricket. You want to play against the best players in the world. He’s definitely, if not the best all-rounder in the world, [then one of],” said Lyon while talking to the media.

On the selection of Tim Paine

Lyon also revealed his excitement to play alongside Paine, who will make a comeback in the Test side after 7 years. He also revealed the fact that the 32-year-old is the best wicketkeeper in the country he has worked with on the field.

“I’m definitely excited for Painey. I’ve played with Painey in a couple of Australia A tours and I love bowling to him. He’s probably the best gloveman in the country so I’m looking forward to having that relationship with him again out in the middle and off the field,” the off-spinner added.

“I’m a big fan of Tim Paine so I can’t wait to see him go out there and hopefully take a few catches off me and a few stumpings,” he concluded.