No Lyon, England have the chance to wear the pace attack down : Brad Hogg

The former veteran Australian chinaman, Brad Hogg, believes that England should change their batting approach and give up playing aggressively on the third day of the second Ashes Test. This is because of Nathan Lyon, who got injured during the match and may not be able to bowl again. Hogg suggested that England should take advantage of Lyon's absence and focus on batting for a longer time to tire out Australia's fast bowlers. 

On day two of the ongoing second Test, England made some changes in their batting strategy after Lyon's injury. However, despite Harry Brook maintaining a decent strike rate, the team's captain, Ben Stokes, ended the day with a low strike rate which is not very often in the modern Bazball era.

"No Lyon, England have their chance to get on top of Australia today trying to bat time and wear the pace attack down, rather than the Bazball way. Sometimes you have to change course when an opportunity arises to set up the rest of the test match and series," Hogg wrote on his Twitter handle on Friday.

No Lyon. England have there chance to get on top of Australia today trying to bat time and wear the pace attack down, rather than the Bazball way. Sometimes you have to change course when a opportunity arises to set up the rest of the test match and series. #Ashes #ENGvsAUS

— Brad Hogg (@Brad_Hogg) June 30, 2023

Nathan Lyon's significance in Australia's bowling attack cannot be underestimated as the Ashes battle intensifies. Recent statistics show that since the start of 2022, Lyon has bowled 30% of Australia's overs, while pace bowlers Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc have bowled 16% and 14% respectively, as tweeted by Hogg. This statistic highlights Lyon's crucial role in maintaining the balance of Australia's bowling lineup.

Since start of 22, Lyon's bowled 30% of Australia's overs, Cummins & Starc 16 & 14%. Shows Lyon's importance to the balance of the bowling attack. Big couple of days at Lords, a spinner on the last day would be a huge asset. Hope he can get back on the park. #Ashes #ENGvsAUS

— Brad Hogg (@Brad_Hogg) June 30, 2023

Todd Murphy's 'Ashes' debut on cards after Nathan Lyon's injury

Former English cricketer Michael Vaughan mentioned that if Nathan Lyon is unable to play beyond this Test, Australia has a backup option in Todd Murphy, who is a capable off-spinner. Vaughan also expressed his confidence in Travis Head's abilities on such pitches, suggesting that he will be useful in the second innings when Australia bowl.

However, the Australian fans hope that Lyon can recover in time and contribute to Australia's campaign in the Ashes. Lyon's presence would not only enhance their chances of victory but also provide depth and variety to their bowling attack.