"After Shane Warne Died, I Felt...": Nathan Lyon's Candid Admission On Responsibility

Australia spinner Nathan Lyon feels that he has the responsibility to 'promote' spin bowling in the country, the heritage that was revived by legend Shane Warne in the Down Under. The 36-year-old is determined to keep going, aiming to continue playing until close to his 40th birthday and potentially featuring in the 2027 Ashes series in England. Lyon mentioned that he hasn't given much thought to the legacy he'll leave for future spinners or who might succeed him in the Test team when his career eventually concludes.

After Warne's sudden death in 2022, Lyon believes that he has to keep the art alive in the country. He is the third-highest wicket-taker for Australia in Tests, with a tally of 530 scalps in 129 matches. Lyon is 33 dismissals short of Glenn McGrath to take the second spot behind Warne's massive tally of 708 wickets.

"I do see the responsibility of flying the flag for the spinners around the country, there is no hiding behind that. Especially with the passing of Warnie, I feel like there is a big role for me to ensure that spin stays cool," ESPNcricinfo quoted Lyon as saying.

"I am not cool in any way, but if I can try and promote spin bowling and promote how great it is to be a spin bowler ... it's pretty cool."

Lyon's durability has been crucial to Australia's recent success, having played 100 consecutive Tests before a calf injury sidelined him during last year's Ashes. He credited his father for making him recognise his responsibility to carry forward spin bowling following Warne's demise.

"Just having that conversation and understanding we're role models in so many different ways to so many different people around the world," he said. "And if we can do our little bit to hopefully make people better