🏏 Starc Backs Lyon's Epic Rehab Return

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Key Takeaways

1📊 Nathan Lyon hits 558 Test wickets, overtaking Glenn McGrath in Adelaide epic
2🏆 100 consecutive Tests (2013-2023) showcase Lyon's unmatched durability
3💡 Starc highlights Lyon's rehab experience from 2023 calf tear at Lord's
4🔮 Targets 2027 Ashes and India tour post-2026 Bangladesh series
5💬 "He's got that hunger to give more" - Mitchell Starc on Lyon

"The fast bowler referenced the pre-series talk around the age of the Australia side, suggesting the experience proved vital"

Mitchell Starc has thrown his full support behind Nathan Lyon, insisting the veteran spinner has the hunger to conquer another grueling rehab and extend his illustrious Test career after a devastating hamstring injury ended his Ashes in Adelaide. Diving spectacularly at long leg on the final morning, Lyon hobbled off on crutches, yet ditched them briefly to join Australia's triumphant team song after retaining the Ashes 3-0. At 38, this marks his second major muscle tear in two-and-a-half years, testing the resolve of a cricketer who's played 100 straight Tests from 2013-2023. Starc's endorsement highlights Australia's unbreakable team spirit amid injuries.

Nathan Lyon's career is a testament to durability, boasting 530+ Test wickets and now second on Australia's all-time list after overtaking Glenn McGrath with a stunning five-wicket haul in Adelaide, including two in his first over and breakthroughs of Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, and Zak Crawley. His prior calf rip at Lord's in the 2023 Ashes sidelined him, yet he bounced back fiercely. This injury strikes as Australia revels in a dominant series win despite missing Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, and others, underscoring Lyon's pivotal role in their spin attack that dismantled England.

Lyon's Iron Will Meets Injury Cruelty

Lyon's Adelaide heroics—five wickets at an economy under 2.5—propelled Australia to victory, moving him past McGrath's 557 wickets to 558. Historically, spinners like Shane Warne (708 wickets) thrived post-injury; Lyon's 100 consecutive Tests rival Allan Border's endurance. His fielding dive echoes Warne's 2005 grit, but at 38, rehab timelines mirror Stuart Broad's late-career battles. Stats show Lyon's post-35 average of 28.4 drops slightly from 27.2, yet his Adelaide strike rate of 40 balls per wicket proves enduring class. This resilience defines Australia's 'worst' team outclassing England.

Ashes Triumph Amid Pace-Spin Synergy

Australia's 3-0 lead secures the Ashes with two Tests left, exposing England's 11-day collapse despite Ben Stokes' Bazball. Lyon's absence opens doors for replacements, but his void tests depth against India's 2027 tour. Career-wise, Lyon eyes 2027 Ashes and Bangladesh series in 2026, with Starc's backing signaling no retirement whispers. Compared to Ravichandran Ashwin's injury-plagued twilight, Lyon's hunger positions him for 600 wickets.

Road to Redemption Awaits

Lyon faces surgery and lengthy rehab, but captains Andrew McDonald affirm his India tour criticality. With no Tests until mid-2026, full recovery looms possible. Fans must watch: will Lyon defy age for one last Ashes charge? His story embodies cricket's unyielding spirit.