Nathan Lyon Fires Ashes Warning: England Risk it All Without Jack Leach

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🏏 Nathan Lyon Sounds Alarm for England: “Ashes Will Be a Massive Challenge Without Jack Leach”

By Dave Middleton | July 31, 2025 | 7 min read

England’s Spin Puzzle Ahead of the Ashes: Lyon Thinks They’re Missing the Key Piece

Australia's veteran spinner Nathan Lyon has thrown a spotlight on England's Ashes preparations, warning that the tourists are heading into rough waters without their most experienced spinner—Jack Leach.

In a chat from Sydney, Lyon emphasized that Leach remains England's best slow bowler and questioned the logic behind England’s evolving spin choices over the past year. His comments come just as England prepare for the final Test against India at The Oval, where once again, Leach is absent.

“In my eyes, Jack Leach is still their best spinner,” Lyon said firmly.

England’s Changing Spin Order: From Leach to Bashir to Bethell

Leach, now 34, was a crucial part of England's unforgettable 2019 Ashes win at Headingley, where he stood tall (with the bat!) alongside Ben Stokes. But since his last appearance for England on the 2022–23 tour of Pakistan—where he picked up 16 wickets at 31.43—Leach has fallen down the pecking order.


Instead, Shoaib Bashir, Leach’s former understudy at Somerset, has taken center stage in recent series against New Zealand, Zimbabwe, and India. But Bashir’s recent finger injury has ruled him out of the current series, forcing England to scramble for backup.

  • Liam Dawson was drafted for a rare Test appearance at Old Trafford—his first in 8 years.

  • For the fifth Test, Jacob Bethell, a part-time left-arm spinner, is now England’s spin option alongside four fast bowlers.

It’s a clear sign that England’s spin strategy remains unsettled.

Lyon’s Insight from County Cricket and Jimmy Anderson’s Chat

Lyon, who played county cricket for Lancashire last winter, revealed a key conversation with Jimmy Anderson, suggesting England sees Bashir as their version of Lyon.

“Jimmy said they’re picking Bashir to do what I do,” Lyon shared.
“That’s a compliment, but Bashir has been okay—not outstanding.”

Lyon subtly reminded that replicating his success in Australian conditions won’t be easy, especially for inexperienced bowlers.

Leach's Current Form Proves His Value

Even though Leach hasn’t featured in international cricket lately, his domestic form speaks volumes. In this year’s County Championship Division One, he’s the leading spinner—39 wickets at 24.76, including two six-wicket hauls.

Compare that to his 2021–22 Ashes tour performance—just 6 wickets at 53.50—and it's clear that Leach has matured as a bowler.

Lyon believes Leach's understanding of Australian conditions gives him a serious edge over newer spinners like Bashir.

“Spin bowling here can be a massive challenge for those who haven’t done it before,” he said.

Bashir in Australia: Unproven So Far

Though Bashir has tasted Australian conditions through a three-match stint with England Lions, the results have been underwhelming:

  • Conceded 7.4 runs per over in his first innings

  • Finished with figures of 1-62, 0-47, and 1-74 in other matches

  • Outperformed by local spinners like Corey Rocchiccioli

It’s a clear indicator that Bashir might not be ready for the tough pitches down under.

Lyon’s Take: “I’m Ready—Let’s See How They Go”

Nathan Lyon is on the brink of cricketing history—just one wicket away from equalling Glenn McGrath’s 563 Test scalps. Yet, his focus remains razor sharp on the bigger picture.

“I’m always improving. Let’s see how their spinners handle the heat here.”

With Lyon in peak form and Australia preparing for the home Ashes, the absence of a seasoned spinner like Leach could be the factor that tilts the series.

Off the Field: New Era for Australian Cricket with Westpac

In the same event where Lyon made these remarks, Westpac was unveiled as Cricket Australia’s new principal partner.

For the next four years, the red 'W' logo will appear on shirts across all Australian teams—Men’s, Women’s, A teams, and U19s.

This partnership aims to:

  • Support women and girls in cricket

  • Empower community clubs and volunteers

  • Promote cricket as an inclusive sport for all

🏁 Final Thoughts

Nathan Lyon’s words may sound like mind games to some, but they hit a real nerve. England's spin strategy is unsettled, and heading into the Ashes without Jack Leach may prove to be a costly gamble.

As Lyon sharpened his skills in Australia’s toughest conditions, England is still figuring out who their go-to spinner should be.

Will Leach return in time to answer the call? Or will England bet on youth again? The Ashes may just hold the answer.

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