Starc backs Lyon to return stronger after Ashes injury

Australia pacer Mitchell Starc has thrown his support behind Nathan Lyon, backing the veteran off-spinner to work through another rehabilitation process and resume his Test career after suffering a hamstring injury during the third Ashes Test in Adelaide.

Lyon hobbled off on the final morning after diving to field at long leg, later returning to the ground on crutches following scans. Despite the setback, he briefly ditched them to join the team song after Australia’s victory, which sealed the Ashes.

The injury marks another frustrating chapter for Lyon, who had previously played 100 consecutive Tests between 2013 and 2023 before suffering a calf injury during the 2023 Ashes in England.

“Really unfortunate for him,” Starc said.

“I'm sure it's a tough one to take. He contributed a lot in this Test match. So he should first and foremost enjoy the moment. He's helped us get to this victory.”

Lyon had made a strong impact on his return to the XI, taking five wickets in the match. He struck twice in his first over to move past Glenn McGrath into second place on Australia’s all-time wicket-takers list, before breaking England’s resistance with key dismissals on the afternoon of Day 4.

Starc believes Lyon’s recent injury history has also given him perspective on what lies ahead.

“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,” Starc said.

“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.”

While Lyon’s fitness remains a concern, Starc himself expressed no doubts about backing up for the remainder of the series.

“[Feeling] good, ready to go,” he said.

“I think my average speed was better than anyone's, so good to go.”

Australia’s experienced core had come under scrutiny ahead of the series, with questions raised about the age profile of the side. However, Starc feels that experience has worked in their favour.

“I think a lot was made about how old the group is and how experienced they are. Perhaps that's played into our hands,” Starc expressed.

Australia celebrates after winning the Adelaide Test on December 21, 2025. // Getty Images

While this series is likely to be Starc’s final Ashes on home soil, the 2027 tour of England remains a possibility after he stepped away from T20Is to prolong his red-ball career.

However, Starc insisted his focus remains firmly on the present.

“I'm not thinking two years down the track just yet. Let's just think about Melbourne and then on to Sydney. But, yeah, it'd certainly be nice to win an Ashes series in England.”

Ashes schedule

First Test: Perth Stadium, November 21-22 (Australia won by eight wickets)
Second Test: Gabba, December 4-7 (Australia won by eight wickets)
Third Test: Adelaide Oval, December 17-21 (Australia won by 82 runs)
Fourth Test: MCG, December 26-30
Fifth Test: SCG, January 4-8