Nathan Lyon Praises ECB's Management of Specially-Abled Cricketers Post Lord's Exhibition Match

Australian cricketer Nathan Lyon lauds the England Cricket Board's (ECB) handling of specially-abled players following an historic exhibition match at Lord's. Lyon, accompanied by Ben Foakes, aims to adopt ECB's practices to enhance Cricket Australia's all-abilities program.

Australian cricketing star Nathan Lyon has expressed admiration for the England Cricket Board's (ECB) management of specially-abled players following an historic match at Lord's. As reported by cricket.com.au, Lyon participated as a guest in a specially-abled 10-over exhibition match for visually impaired players, and a 40-over all-abilities game. He was joined by England's wicketkeeper-batter, Ben Foakes.

Lyon spoke to cricket.com.au about his interest in the differences in how the ECB handles disability cricket. The Australian spinner aims to implement similar strategies within Cricket Australia's (CA) all-abilities program. "I was keen to see the differences in how the ECB run their disability cricket and if there's anything we can potentially take back to CA to help improve the all-abilities program at home," Lyon said.

Lyon observed that while there are similarities, England excels in focusing on physical disabilities, including amputees. "It's pretty similar in most areas, but one area where England focus and do really well is physical disabilities such as amputees and getting them involved. The game on Monday featured teams with learning disabilities, hearing disabilities, and physical disabilities. It was pretty special to see the first match of its kind being played out on the turf at Lord's," he added.

Lyon also hoped to inspire more players to take up cricket. "It was just a great chance to learn and hopefully inspire boys and girls to play a game for all. There's so much we can learn about everyday things we take for granted, whether it's crossing the road, driving a car, or even walking down stairs," he said.

Lyon serves as Cricket Australia's National Ambassador for Cricketers with a Disability and has recently signed with Lancashire for the County Championship. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)