All eyes on Lyon as Smith signals spin threat in WTC25 Final

As Australia prepares to face South Africa in the ICC World Test Championship Final, star batter Steve Smith has hinted at the kind of conditions that could shape the outcome of the summit clash.

Speaking ahead of the Ultimate Test, Smith acknowledged that the surface at Lord’s is looking drier than usual and could evolve considerably over the course of the match.

This is welcome news for one of Australia’s most trusted campaigners, Nathan Lyon.

“Yeah, I think spin will play a big part, particularly as the game wears on," Smith said at Lord's on Monday.

"It is dry, I think. The reports, we only came here a week ago. So, it’s pretty dry to start the season over here.”

Typically known for its seam-friendly conditions, with predictions being made for the sides to field all-pace attacks in their bowling lineups. However, England’s early summer has defied expectations this year, with Smith sharing the sentiment.

“There’s not been much rain, which is rare for England obviously.”

**“**But, yeah. It does look like quite a dry surface,” added Smith.

With the conditions seemingly setting up the stage for the legendary tweaker to work his magic, akin to his performance in the 2023 World Test Championship Final, securing figures of 4/41 in the second innings as he cleaned up India’s tail to secure Australia’s victory at The Oval.

The 37-year-old also has an impressive record against the Proteas as he has 56 wickets in 14 Test matches.

While he can make an impact irrespective of conditions, the seasoned Aussie will have to hope for the pitch to favour his skillset to help Australia retain their status as Test Champions.