Ian Chappell, the former Australian cricket captain and selector, has suggested that Australian spinners should avoid trying to emulate the bowling styles of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja. He believes that Australian spinners should instead rely on their own natural style of bowling, which is tailored to the conditions in Australia.
During a news channel discussion, he commented that Nathan Lyon and Ravichandran Ashwin are different types of bowlers. He stated that the Australian off-spinner would not be successful if he attempted to bowl in the same style as Ashwin.
Chappell remarked that Lyon had performed well with the ball during the series. He continued by saying that it is impossible to copy what Ashwin and Jadeja do and that Lyon should instead bowl in his own unique style – which he has done well. He stated,
“I don’t think you can come and try and replicate what Ashwin and Jadeja do. Nathan Lyon is not Ravichandran Ashwin and has to bowl like Nathan Lyon. He has tried to do that pretty well.”
Ian Chappell
Nathan Lyon had a rather quiet start to the Test series against India in Nagpur, with just one wicket to his name at the end of the match. This was a far cry from his usual form, and it was clear that he was disappointed with his performance.
However, he made a remarkable comeback in the second Test, taking five wickets in India’s first innings. This was a statement of intent from the Australian spinner, who proved that he is still capable of delivering when it matters.