Scott Boland in as Australia drops Nathan Lyon for first time in 13 years
Australia drops Nathan Lyon after 13 years of selection, picking Scott Boland in an all-pace attack for the second Test.
Australia has dropped Nathan Lyon for the first time in 13 years when fully fit, naming Scott Boland in an all-pace attack for Sunday's second Test against South Africa in Gqeberha. Lyon has been left out for pink-ball and injured situations before, but never for a day Test when healthy.
Boland, whose Test record stands at 82 wickets at 18.58, gets his chance. Pat Cummins chose to bowl first after rain cleared.
The move signals growing confidence in Boland's ability over Lyon's experience, with Australia looking to exploit conditions they expect to trouble batters early.
- 13 years since 2013
- Years of selection
- 82 at 18.58 average
- Boland's wickets
- Gqeberha, South Africa
- Location
- Second Test, day format
- Match type
Why it mattersThe selection change marks a significant shift in Australia's Test team balance, ending a 13-year streak and backing Boland's proven efficiency.
AustraliaAustralian cricket fans will watch Boland prove whether he can justify replacing Lyon in a crucial Test series that shapes the summer tour.
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