Ashes 2025-26: ‘Nothing against Lyon’ – Steve Smith explains why Neser was picked in 2nd Test instead of the ace spinner

Stand-in Australian captain Steve Smith revealed the rationale behind dropping the experienced Nathan Lyon for the second Ashes Test and bringing seam-bowling all-rounder Michael Neser. The veteran off-spinner missed a home Test match for the first time since 2012.

Having bowled just two overs in the first Test in Perth, Lyon was dropped from the side for the second Test, which took place at the iconic Gabba in Brisbane last week. Smith noted that it was a tactical move as the decision to bring Neser into the playing XI allowed Australia to exploit the seamer-friendly conditions in the pink-ball Test. The former also mentioned that Neser’s batting ability provided more depth to the Australian side.

“He did a wonderful job. I hope so. It was tight, we could’ve gone a few different ways and it’s certainly nothing against Nathan. He’s been our spinner for a long time. I think Michael offers something different. We can bring the keeper up, we can bowl stump to stump, keep things tight and make you take risks when the ball’s probably not quite as quick or a little bit skiddy,” said Smith in the post-match press conference.

Smith said that Neser’s role in the middle was pretty much the same as Lyon’s. The 35-year-old bagged one wicket in the first innings and five in the second. He was rewarded for his patience, as he bowled tight lines and lengths.

“It was a kind of similar role as to what Nathan would play, obviously not a spinner, but a similar role and obviously (he) extended our batting, which we thought was going to be crucial as well,” he added.

Lyon wasn’t too pleased after being left out of the playing XI. During an interview amid the second Test, he expressed his frustration at the move. However, come the third Test, expect the second-highest wicket-taker for Australia in the format to play a major role.