James Anderson and Nathan Lyon throw ceremonial first pitch in Major League Baseball London Series 2023

The much-awaited second Test of Ashes 2023 is just three days away as Australia and England will face off in the second game on Wednesday, June 28, at Lord’s Ground, in London. Both teams got seven days' rest between the two games as players participated in activities to rejuvenate themselves. To spend some time off the field, star England seamer James Anderson and Australian off-spinner, Nathan Lyon, marked their presence during a Major League Baseball (MLB) game, at the London Stadium, on Saturday, June 24. 

The duo threw out the ceremonial first pitch during the game between the Chicago Cubs and St Louis Cardinals, to get the 2023 MLB London Series underway. Anderson was spotted donning the colours of the Chicago Cubs, while Lyon, sported St Louis Cardinals jersey. Notably, fans also drew in the comparison between the throw of the famous MMA legend, Conor McGregor, who pitched for the Cubs' home game against the Minnesota Twins, back in 2021, with Anderson's throw calling it miles better than the MMA legend.

MLB Europe took to Twitter to share the video of the duo making the pitch and wrote, “Who had the better ceremonial first pitch?🏴 Jimmy Anderson Nathan Lyon.”

Who had the better ceremonial first pitch?

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 Jimmy Anderson
🇦🇺 Nathan Lyon#LondonSeries | @jimmy9 @englandcricket | @NathLyon421 @CricketAus pic.twitter.com/mPgf4Nx8sa

— MLB Europe (@MLBEurope) June 24, 2023

Reflecting on Australia’s thrilling win by two wickets in the first Test of Ashes 2023 Lyon said that it was one of the best Test matches that he’s played. Notably, Nathan Lyon (16*) forged an unbeaten 55-run stand with his captain Pat Cummins (44*) to guide Australia home after they were left reeling at 227/8 while chasing 281.

Nathan Lyon will look to continue his remarkable bowling effort in Second Ashes Test

Meanwhile, speaking of the first Ashes Test victory, the offspin wizard during a recent interview had said that even though it is a special win for him and his team, there is still a lot of preparation Australia need to do before clashing against England at the iconic Lord's Ground.

With the ball, the off-spinner picked 4/149 and 4/80 in the two innings respectively. On the other hand, Anderson could pick only one wicket during the first Ashes Test as he registered figures 1/109 in 38 overs across both innings of the Test. The veteran seamer will be eager to make a strong comeback in the second game as England look to level the series after being 0-1 behind.