Lyon to rip into hapless tourists

NATHAN Lyon is primed to feast on England’s carcass today after Australia scorched their way towards Ashes glory at the SCG.

England were burnt to a crisp after a session-and-a-half in Sydney’s 57C slow cooker, before a declaration opened the gate for Lyon to finish them off on a turning pitch.

Lyon (2-31) ensured it should only be a matter of time until Australia lift the urn as 4-0 victors today, as he blazed through Alastair Cook’s defences in his very first over with a stunning delivery that epitomised the off-spinner’s dominance this summer.

However, this has been one of the great all-round performances in history with Lyon, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins only the fourth attack to ever all finish a series with at least 20 wickets each.

England limped to stumps at 4-93 and the Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow partnership shapes as the final resistance before the end comes, as Australia chase the final six wickets required.

“He’s had a massive effect on this series and along with Steve Smith he’s been their star performer in that he’s allowed the seamers decent periods of rest but also seemed a constant threat,” said England assistant coach Paul Farbrace.

“He’s taken wickets throughout the series which is a testament to his high level of skill. We’ve not got away from his stranglehold.”

Shaun Marsh, who along with brother Mitchell made twin centuries to give Australia a 303-run lead (now down to

210) said conditions were tailor made for Lyon to wreak havoc.

“Gaz is obviously the key tomorrow,” he said after Australia declared at 7-649. “The wicket is definitely suiting him and especially with the lefthanders he’ll come into play. He showed his class today.”

England were left mentally and physically crushed and spearheads Starc and Cummins took full advantage, tearing out of the blocks to banish rookies Mark Stoneman and James Vince and leave the embattled tourists pining for a plane ticket home.