Ashes 2023: Nathan Lyon arrives on crutches ahead of Day 3 of Lord's Test

The Pat Cummins-led Australia dealt with a major blow on Day 2 of the second Ashes Test as veteran off-spinner Nathan Lyon suffered a calf injury at the Lord's Cricket Ground.

Lyon was injured while attempting a catch at fine-leg and did not return to the crease, with Australia now concerned over his involvement in the remainder of this series. Notably, the ongoing match is his 100th consecutive game for the Kangaroos, demonstrating his consistency throughout the years.

On Friday morning, Lyon arrived at Lord's on crutches with his colleagues ahead of the third day's play. He was seen hobbling into the stadium and a protective sleeve was also wrapped across his right calf. However, Australia are yet to provide an update on his fitness and availability for the ongoing five-game series.

See pic:

Nathan Lyon arrives in Lord's with the help of crutches.

Get well soon, Lyon. [Sky Sports] pic.twitter.com/2iWqI30n10

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) June 30, 2023

England end Day 2 on 278/4 as Stokes, Brook at the crease

Speaking of the second Test match, ace batter Steve Smith struck his 32nd century in the longest format of the game as Australia fought back against England's attack despite losing wickets quickly in the first session of Day 2. Smith departed after scoring 110 off 184 balls as he was dismissed by Ashes debutant Josh Tongue, who had earlier dismissed openers David Warner and Usman Khawaja. However, Ollie Robinson grabbed Australia's final wickets and the visitors scored 416 runs in the opening innings. 

Meanwhile, openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett got the Ben Stokes-led side off to a blazing start in their first innings. Crawley and Duckett were both removed for 48 and 98 runs, respectively, missing out on a half-century and a hundred. However, Ollie Pope provided an important contribution for England, scoring 42 runs before being removed by all-rounder Cameron Green. Notably, England ended Day 2 on 278/4, with Harry Brook (45*) and Ben Stokes (17*) leading the way for the hosts.