Lyon set for first county spell with Worcestershire

Australia off-spinner Nathan Lyon

Australia's premier spinner Nathan Lyon is set for a first spell in county cricket with Worcestershire.

Lyon, his country's most prolific finger-spinner of all time, will replace compatriot John Hastings after the all-rounder was called up for the ICC Champions Trophy next month.

The experienced Lyon will provide cover for Hastings in June, subject to clearance from Cricket Australia.

Worcestershire director of cricket Steve Rhodes said: "Nathan Lyon will be joining us and he will replace John. He is a very good replacement. It is a different slant, from a pace bowler to a spin bowler.

Exciting times ahead replacing the big man @johnhastings194 at @WorcsCCC during the champs trophy!! Can't wait to get over there!!!

— Nathan Lyon (@NathLyon421) May 2, 2017

"The good thing for Worcestershire supporters is we have replaced a top international with another top international cricketer.

"Nathan has been mainly playing Test Match cricket for Australia and is available for Worcestershire CCC as he has not been picked for the Champions Trophy, Australia having selected a couple of batting spinners instead.

"He is the number one international spinner in Australia at the moment and just had recent success in India.

"Nathan is a very respected off spinner and we are looking forward to him joining us and replacing John for the time he is away."

Lyon has taken 247 wickets in 67 Tests.