Nathan Lyon defends David Warner as under-fire opener eyes farewell summer
Nathan Lyon says he doesn’t think the Australian public “realises” how significant a role David Warner has played for the national men’s side throughout his 109-Test career.
The veteran Australian off-spinner also says he will greet Mitchell Johnson during the first Test of the summer, beginning on Thursday, despite the former fast bowler’s scathing criticism of Warner and chairman of selectors George Bailey.
“Knowing David for the last 13-14 years, when he seems to be backed into the corner that’s when he plays his best cricket,” Lyon said ahead of the Perth Test against Pakistan.
“I’m backing David to come out and perform the way he has for Australia.
“I honestly don’t feel like the Australian public probably realises the importance that David has played for the Australian cricket team over the last 13 years … I think I’ve played over 100 Test matches with David and to see what he’s been able to do for Australia is pretty amazing.
“I’m looking forward to seeing him come out here, that’s for sure.”
Warner is planning on retiring from Test cricket at the SCG in January, but has averaged only 31.79 in the longest form of the game since the beginning of 2020. If the 37-year-old’s lean run continues early in the summer, selectors could scrap his farewell plan.
Across the course of Warner’s Test career, the left-hander has piled up 8487 runs at a smidgen under 45, including 25 centuries.
One man gunning to take Warner’s place, Cameron Bancroft, has churned out 1457 runs at a tick under 60 in the Sheffield Shield over the last two summers.
Matthew Renshaw bolstered his own case for a Test recall in the Prime Minister’s XI clash in Canberra last week, making an unbeaten 136 at Manuka Oval.
Johnson will be watching on from the Triple M radio commentary box in Perth as Warner’s farewell summer gets under way.
“If he’s around the ground I’ll say hello to him,” Lyon said.
“I’ve got no dramas with saying hello.
“He was pretty incredible in that 2013-14 Ashes and I’ve got some very fond memories of it, that’s for sure.”
Lyon is on the cusp of becoming just the third Australian to take 500 Test wickets, along with Shane Warne (708) and Glenn McGrath (563). Lyon is sitting on 496 wickets ahead of the Perth Test.
The New South Welshman has thrived at Perth Stadium, taking 22 wickets at 18.45, including a six-for, from the three Tests he’s played at the venue.
“It’s something I’m extremely proud of and when you look at it you’re slowly creeping your way up on two Australian greats who are the only two guys who have taken over 500 wickets for Australia,” Lyon said.
“It’s pretty amazing when you potentially see your name up alongside those guys.
“I feel like this stadium is world-class and the facilities we’ve had out here have been really exciting to bowl on and be a part of a strong bowling group. I like playing my role here, I enjoy bowling here, there’s nice bounce, a bit of spin there on offer, as well, so all in all [it’s] a nice place to bowl.”
