Nathan Lyon backed to rule at WACA while the English would struggle to keep up with the Aussie pace attack

While the Aussies are just one win away from reclaiming the lost Ashes urn, the English will look to open their account at the WACA. The English batsmen have continuously failed to deal with the destructive Aussie trio, not to mention Nathan Lyon, of Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins throughout the series. To pile upon the misery, the WACA pitch is a pace friendly one according to reports.

While Joe Root and his men desperately need to find out a solution to deal with the Kangaroo pace attack, Aussie spinner Nathan Lyon is being tipped to take advantage of the situation. According to pundits and former cricketers, the veteran bowler could turn the WACA into his hunting ground as the English will have a focus on the pace threat.

Nathan Lyon dismantled the English line up both in Brisbane and Adelaide and has been a major reason behind Australia’s 2-0 lead. The bowler is believed to be in his career’s best form and is also the leading Test wicket-taker in 2017.

Also read: (Ashes 2017/18: Alastair Cook Contemplating Retirement – Mitchell Johnson)

Speaking about the same, Aussie coach Darren Lehmann said:

“Perth’s a tough place (for spinners), that’s traditional because it swings and quicks bowl the majority of the overs,” “He’ll get drift obviously with The Doctor (Fremantle’s famous sea breeze), and some bounce. “He’s been bowling brilliantly for us,” he added.

Wicket-keeper Tim Payne was all praises for his senior teammate and described his output as ‘incredible’.

“He’s probably bowling the best he’s ever bowled,” Paine said.

“This pitch might not spin as much as we’ve seen. But the shape he’s getting on the ball and the bounce he’s been getting – if he can get that same sort of bounce, which I’m sure he will here, he’s going to be hard work for them again.” Paine added.

Sri Lankan legend and of the all-time greats Kumar Sangakkara pointed out Lyon as the difference between the two teams.

“The key difference between the two sides has been Lyon, being able to tie them down and bowl long spells from one end. He bowls with great pace, has great shape on the ball, and he uses the angles of over- and round-the-wicket very well.” said the Sri Lankan.

“He’s very sure of himself, there’s no doubt in his mind about his ability, and his captain backs him to the hilt.

“They must be more aggressive against him. They must try to shorten his spells by being proactive.” concluded Sangakkara.