Nathan Lyon backs Tim Paine to don the gloves in Ashes
Nathan Lyon (Photo by Chris Hyde – CA/Cricket Australia via Getty Images)
Australia off-spinner Nathan Lyon has said that the team must select Tim Paine as the designated wicketkeeper for the Ashes series. Paine had earlier stepped down from captaincy following a sexting scandal. The wicketkeeper-batter though had stated that he will be available for selection.
Incidentally, Paine was recalled into the Australian Test side for the 2017 Ashes series for his top-notch glove work. Ever since his return to the national team, the 36-year-old has hardly dropped a catch and formed a good partnership with the bowlers.
Lyon, who has been a regular in the team, feels Paine should don the gloves as he is the best wicketkeeper in the country. “This is very selfish: From a bowler’s point of view, I want the best gloveman behind the stumps.
“Every bowler’s relationship with the keeper is exceptional.”
The off-spinner further lavished praise on Paine and said he is a very lovable and respected guy. Lyon has also revealed all the players are backing the wicketkeeper to be in the playing XI for the Ashes series.
“I’m pretty sure I’m speaking on behalf of every bowler that we want the best keeper.
“He’s got my full support and I 100 percent guarantee he’s got the full support of the Australian change room,” the 34-year-old added.
If Paine is not selected for the Ashes series, then Josh Inglis, Alex Carey, and Matthew Wade are the likely candidates to don the gloves. Former Australia leg spinner Shane Warne has put his weight behind Inglis. He feels it is the right time to give the gloves to the youngster, considering the good form he is shown in Sheffield Shield and T20 cricket across the globe. The first Ashes Test match is due to start on December 8 in Brisbane.
