Ashes 2025-26: 'He's still got that hunger' - Mitchell Starc backs Nathan Lyon to return stronger from hamstring injury

Ace Australian quick Mitchell Starc backed compatriot and star off-spinner Nathan Lyon to make a strong comeback after completing his rehabilitation programme following sustaining a hamstring injury during the ongoing Ashes. The Young-born hobbled off the field on the fifth and final day of the third Test and later returned to the venue on crutches.

Starc expressed how ill-fated Lyon's injury was. The left-arm pacer, however, shared that Lyon should be proud of his efforts, which played a vital role in ensuring the Pat Cummins-led side secured an 82-run win in Adelaide, also winning the Ashes with an unbreachable 3-0 lead.

“Really unfortunate for him. I'm sure it's a tough one to take. He contributed a lot in this [Adelaide] Test match. He should first and foremost enjoy the moment. He's helped us get to this victory,” stated Starc, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

The left-arm pacer spoke on how Lyon has previously overcome issues with his calf and returned stronger than ever. He also hoped that the veteran's injury was not a serious one and that he will be back in the near future.

“He's obviously had a layoff with his calf through England, so he's sort of more on board with the fast bowlers in terms of what rehab takes. I think he's still got that hunger to give more to Australia. So that's all for him to think through. Hopefully, it's not a huge layoff. But, yeah, obviously disappointed for him. Hopefully, he's back sooner than later,” Starc concluded.

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Lyon played a massive role for Australia in a contest which secured yet another series triumph against their arch-rivals at home. Lyon's figures in England's first and second innings read 2/70 in 28 overs and 3/77 in 25 overs, respectively. All of his second innings wickets were massive ones; Harry Brook (30 off 56), Ben Stokes (5 off 18) and Zak Crawley (85 off 151).

Alex Carey was adjudged the Player of the Match in Adelaide. The fourth and fifth Tests are scheduled to be played from December 26 (Melbourne) and January 4 (Sydney), respectively.