Nathan Lyon backs Tim Paine to play the 1st Ashes Test vs England

Australia's premier spinner Nathan Lyon backed former Test captain Tim Paine to play the 1st Ashes Test vs England. Paine's spot in the team is under the scanner after he stepped down from Test captaincy following a sexting scandal.

Lyon said that Paine made a mistake a few years ago, and he showed a lot of courage and owned the mistake. Lyon also said that Paine has the full backing of the Australian change room.

Lyon further added that Tim Paine has been Australia's best wicketkeeper and he remains hopeful that the Tasmanian would be part of Australia playing XI for the first Ashes test at Brisbane, starting December 8.

Lyon explained that from a bowler's point of view, he wants the best gloveman behind the stumps and reckoned that Paine is best.