Australia’s Nathan Lyon discusses role with England’s Tom Hartley amid concerns of taking playing time

Australia’s Nathan Lyon has reassured fans and teammates that he is not here to take anyone’s spot, amid concerns that he might overshadow England’s rising left-arm spinner, Tom Hartley. Lyon, who has an impressive record of 129 Tests and 530 wickets, joined Lancashire as a teammate to Hartley, who recently emerged as England’s leading wicket-taker in their tour of India.

Hartley, a 24-year-old spinner, showcased his talent by taking 22 wickets at an average of 36.13 during his debut series in India. However, with Lyon’s arrival at Lancashire, there are worries that Hartley’s opportunities to impress the England selectors might be limited.

In an interview with Sky Sports, Lyon made it clear that he is here to work alongside Hartley and help him succeed. “I’m not here to take Tom’s spot,” Lyon stated. “I’m here to bowl with Tom and win games of cricket. He’s an exciting young prospect for England cricket, which is great to see, and if I can help him out along the way, I’ve got absolutely no dramas with that.”

Lyon also praised both Hartley and Somerset’s Shoaib Bashir, who is currently filling in for the injured Jack Leach as England’s No 1 spinner. Lyon expressed his admiration for the young spinners’ performances in India and expressed his excitement for their future in English cricket.

With Leach sidelined until early May, Bashir has the opportunity to establish himself as England’s top spinner. Lyon’s presence at Lancashire provides valuable experience and mentorship for both Hartley and Bashir as they aim to secure their spots in the national team.

Overall, Lyon’s arrival has added depth to Lancashire’s spin department and promises an exciting competition for the coveted spot in England’s first Test of the summer against the West Indies on July 10.