Despite going 2-0 up in the five-match Ashes series, Australia suffered a massive blow today when the news broke that their talismanic spinner, Nathan Lyon was ruled out of the remainder of the series due to a calf injury. (More Cricket News)
With Lyon out, spinner Todd Murphy could get a look-in for the remainder of the series. Moreover, Nathan Lyon himself has backed the young spinner, who impressed the cricketing world during the tour of India, which included the prized wicket of Virat Kohli.
"His stock ball is good enough in international cricket. We have seen that in India in arguably the hardest place to bowl spin," Lyon was quoted on cricket.com.au website.
"It will be a different challenge with the England batters. If they do come at him, it provides Todd with a decent challenge. But a chance to leave his footmarks here in England. It is a big Ashes series, he is excited by the opportunity."
Reserve batter Matt Renshaw has also been released by the management but will remain in England if there are any more injuries.
Australia squad for third Test: Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitch Marsh, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Jimmy Peirson (wk), Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, David Warner
