Scott Boland shines as Nathan Lyon is dropped for Test match against South Africa

Nathan Lyon missed a red ball Test for the first time in 13 years when fit to play after being dropped for the match against South Africa at St George's Park in Gqeberha. Roughly 45 minutes before the first ball, Lyon walked up to Scott Boland and the two shared a hug, marking the moment Lyon learned of his omission and Boland's recall. Rain heavily impacted the day's play, but Boland quickly proved his worth after being called on by captain Pat Cummins following a rain delay.

The Wickets

Boland dismissed Aiden Markram by tempting him into a drive with a nip-backer that took his middle stump. On the very next ball, David Bedingham edged a delivery that jagged away and was caught. The double strike left Proteas coach Shukri Conrad and Kagiso Rabada wide-eyed in the viewing area. Temba Bavuma narrowly avoided a hat-trick by getting an inside edge.

Context

Nathan Lyon's omission highlights how modern pitches outside of India increasingly favor seam bowlers like Scott Boland over spin bowlers. Pitch conditions, such as the lower bounce at St George's Park, often bring the stumps into play and suit Boland's style of bowling.