Australia shocked fans and pundits ahead of the second Ashes Test in Brisbane by omitting veteran spinner Nathan Lyon — the first time he has been left out of a home Test in more than a decade. The 38-year-old, who is Australia’s third-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket, watched from the sidelines as selectors chose an all-pace attack for the day-night match at the Gabba.

The decision came on a day marked by further uncertainty around captain Pat Cummins, who had been the subject of speculation regarding a late return despite not being named in the official squad. Ultimately, Cummins was ruled out again as he continues to recover from a back injury, leaving Steve Smith to lead the side once more.

A “Bombshell” Selection Call

Cricket Australia’s website described Lyon’s omission as a “bombshell,” and many observers agreed. Lyon holds an elite record in Australian cricket, with only Shane Warne and Glenn McGrath claiming more Test wickets. He is just two dismissals away from overtaking McGrath’s tally of 562.

Chief selector George Bailey acknowledged that Lyon did not agree with the choice, but stressed that disagreement is normal among competitive athletes.

“Nathan will disagree with the decision, and that’s perfectly fine,” Bailey said. “He felt the same way when he missed out in Jamaica, and we welcome that belief. He’s always capable of influencing a match.”

The Gabba Test marks only the second time in three matches that Lyon has been dropped, with the previous instance coming in Australia’s win over West Indies earlier this year.

Why Australia Went With Four Seamers

Stand-in captain Steve Smith explained that conditions under the lights were a major driver in selecting an all-pace attack. Pink-ball Tests at the Gabba traditionally offer significant movement, especially later in the evening.

“Pat was really close,” Smith said when asked about Cummins. “He’s progressing well, but we didn’t want to take an unnecessary risk. With the pink ball, we felt the seamers would give us the best chance of taking 20 wickets.”

Michael Neser earned his third Test cap as a result, with all his appearances so far coming in day-night matches. His local experience at the Gabba, combined with his ability to strengthen the lower order, made him a logical inclusion.

Reaction From Former Players

Former England spinner Alex Hartley expressed surprise at the decision to leave out Lyon, noting both his exceptional record at the Gabba and how quickly the pink ball tends to soften in Brisbane.

“I’m really surprised Australia have left Lyon out,” Hartley said. “He manages to control an end when the ball gets older. Maybe Australia feel they have enough part-time spin options like Marnus Labuschagne.”

Despite his frustration, Lyon remains confident in his ability to contribute in any conditions.

“I’m disappointed on multiple levels,” Lyon said. “But I still firmly believe I can play a role anywhere in the world. Every player should hold that belief.”

Changes for Both Sides Ahead of the Day-Night Test

Australia made one more expected change, bringing in Josh Inglis for the injured Usman Khawaja. Travis Head continues as opener, with Inglis set to bat at number seven.

England had already settled their XI, selecting spin-bowling all-rounder Will Jacks to replace injured fast bowler Mark Wood. Despite the addition of a spinner, England’s historical record at the Gabba remains a significant hurdle — they have not won at the ground since 1986, nor have they claimed a victory in any of their three previous pink-ball Tests in Australia.

This match is also the first time England have batted first in a day-night Test on Australian soil, continuing captain Ben Stokes’ streak of winning the toss — now extended to seven consecutive matches.

With a crucial Test underway and bold selection calls made on both sides, the pressure is mounting as the Ashes narrative takes another unexpected turn.