'I don't understand criticism' of Starc – Lyon defends Australia paceman

Starc, who has collected 15 wickets from five Tests over the course of the Australian summer, has come under fire from a number of former players for his performances, including former Australia Test stars Mark Waugh and Shane Warne.

Such has been the discussion surrounding Starc's role, that Virat Kohli came to the paceman's defence after India's 2-1 Test series victory over Australia earlier this month, saying: "He has been your number one bowler for years now.

"I am a little surprised with the magnitude of the criticism that has come to him."

Speaking to reporters ahead of the second Test between Australia and Sri Lanka, Lyon offered his own appraisal of Starc, whose appearance in Australia’s innings victory at the Gabba was his 50th in the Test arena.

"I don't understand all the criticism, to be honest," said Lyon.

“Mitch is one of my best mates and I back him to the hilt and back and as I have said in press conferences before, if you want to take my gear and go face him in the nets, go for it.

"He is bowling fast, he is moving it, he had the ball reversing in the nets. Mitch is a good fella and an x-factor.”

Despite collecting figures of 2/97 in the first Test against the visiting Sri Lankans, Starc’s removal of Suranga Lakmal in the first innings saw him reach the landmark of 200 Test wickets, becoming the 17th Australian to do so.

"He’s got 200 Test wickets so if anyone can get 200 Test wickets you must know what you are doing and you must be confident,” added Lyon.

“I back Mitchell to come out and play a massive role in every game he comes out to play in for Australia. So I’m looking forward to watching him this week and hopefully bowling really well with him in partnerships, because that's the biggest key.

"Mitch has got all of my support and that whole changing room's support so it is pretty unfair criticism in my eyes."