Only the great Shane Warne and legendary seamer Glenn McGrath have taken more Test wickets for Australia than Lyon. The 38-year-old needs two more to surpass McGrath’s 562 and move into second place on the list.
The last time Lyon was left out of a home Test was against India in Waca in January 2012. They had played 71 consecutive Tests at home.
“I’m really surprised that Australia left out Lyon, given their record at the Gabba and also how this ball softens quickly,” former England player Alex Hartley said on Test Match Special.
“You may need someone to hold a field, but maybe they are thinking they have enough part-time spinners to do it – Labuschagne can bowl a bit.”
Lyon has now been left out of Australia’s XI twice in three Tests; He was also omitted from the day match against the West Indies in Jamaica in July, which Australia won by 176 runs.
Of that decision, Lyon said: “Disappointed on several levels. I believe I can play a role in any conditions, and honestly I still believe that.
“I want to play every match for Australia and I have the belief that I can play a role in any conditions, as every cricketer should have that belief.”
Neser lengthens Australia’s batting at number eight and has the experience of the Gabba being his home ground, but only Warne and McGrath have more wickets than Lyon in Brisbane.
As expected, Leeds-born Josh Inglis arrived in the Australian team to replace the injured Usman Khawaja. Travis Head continues as opener, with Inglis listed to bat at number seven.
England had already confirmed their XI, with bowling all-rounder Will Jacks taking the place of injured fast bowler Mark Wood.
England have not won at the Gabba since 1986 or in any of their three previous pink-ball matches in Australia.
This is the first day-night in Australia in which England batted first, as captain Ben Stokes extended his team’s winning streak in the draw to seven consecutive Tests.
