Lyon well aware of his seniority now

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Senior statesman Nathan Lyon is eager to lead by example, as Australia look to succeed without the experienced David Warner and Steven Smith.

Warner and Smith are serving bans, after being involved in ball-tampering against South Africa in Cape Town earlier this year. Opener Cameron Bancroft was also sanctioned by Cricket Australia.

Former coach Darren Lehmann, meanwhile, has resigned – and succeeded by the steely Justin Langer. Wicketkeeper-batsman Tim Paine took over from Smith as captain.

“It’s a new chapter, a new era under Justin and Tim. I think it is going to be a very exciting time for Australian cricket,” the Canberra Times quoted Lyon as saying.

“There is a lot of opportunity for young players, and young batsman especially, to really stand up and make heroes of themselves.

“It’s going to be an exciting time for Australian cricket. I know I am very excited about it and being one of the leaders of the side, especially the most experienced one, I’ve got a big role to play.”

Australia will play against Pakistan in Dubai later this year, without injured fast bowlers Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins. Left-arm seamer Mitchell Starc will likely be fit enough to play.

“We’re still going to have a good side going over there, the likes of Mitchell and myself are going to have to lead the way with the ball,” added Lyon, who has played 78 Tests.

“It’s a good challenge for us. Pakistan play some decent cricket over there in Dubai. It’s going to be a different challenge.”

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