Lyon pleased to trump KP

Spinner Nathan Lyon delighted in his outstanding contribution to Australia's success on day one of the fourth Ashes Test in Durham.

Spinner Nathan Lyon delighted in his outstanding contribution to Australia's success on day one of the fourth Ashes Test in Durham.

Lyon's figures of four for 42 resigned England to a substandard 238 for nine in Chester-le-Street on Friday, bringing into question host captain Alastair Cook's decision to bat first after winning the toss.

Lyon's haul included the key wickets of Jonathan Trott, Ian Bell and Jonny Bairstow, with his dismissal arguably the most important. Pietersen scored a century in the previous Test – and immediately looked to attack the spinner this time.

Lyon, however, had the final say – with wicketkeeper Brad Haddin at hand to snare the catch which got rid of the in-form right-hander for a modest 26.

"I was pretty happy with the way I bowled personally and we have a big job for the next four days. I was pretty happy with the way they came out and I was happy enough to build some pressure from one end and let our quicks rotate from the other end," said Lyon.

"I love it, the contest with Kevin. That is the best thing about it. Credit goes to him because he took the game to me but I was lucky enough to come out on top today but cricket is a funny game."

The slow bowler's superb showing was complemented by the attacking field placements deployed throughout the day.

"Clarke has been awesome. He is a very attacking captain and he is a great leader. The way he plays spin bowling has certainly helped the way I have bowled in my career," added Lyon.

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