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Nathan Lyon admits he is expecting plenty of banter from England fans over sandpapergate when Australia take on Eoin Morgan’s side in an ODI tour this summer.
Touring England in a five-match series, Australia will be without the banned trio of Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft and spinner Lyon says he doesn’t expect the controversy to go unmentioned against the poms.
“There’s no point taking some tissues out with us, we’ve just got to stand out there and cop it,” Lyons said.
“I’ve never played in England where they haven’t given it to us.”
The 30-year-old believes the series is an prime opportunity to cement his place in next year’s World Cup squad having proven to be a mainstay in Australia’s Test side – passing 300 Test wickets in the South Africa tour that was overshadowed by the ball-tampering saga.
“It’s a great opportunity for you to push your claims for the World Cup in 2019,” Lyon added.
“To get this opportunity and be included in the squad and to head over to England, where the World Cup is is being played that’s going to be a massive advantage.”
With Tim Paine announced as ODI captain, Lyon was asked about the situation regarding the return of Smith and Warner and revealed he had recently spoke to his ‘really good mates’.
“If the guys want to come back, and I’m sure without a doubt they want to come back, I’ve got no dramas with three of them coming back,” said Lyon, who has made 13 ODI appearances for his country.
“They have copped their consequences and their sanctions, and they are all really good mates of mine, so they are more than welcome to come back.
“I’ve been catching up with David (Warner) and Smithy (Steve Smith) over the weekend, so it’s all good.”
