Aussies excited to face Kagiso Rabada at Newlands

Nathan Lyon says Australia are not intimidated by Kagiso Rabada’s inclusion for the Newlands Test.

The Proteas speedster was cleared for the remainder of the Test series after he successfully overturned his two-match suspension.

ALSO READ: Rabada cleared to play

His availability is a major boost for the Proteas heading into the Newlands Test, on a wicket that should suit the 22-year-old.

Lyon tried to brush off the hype surrounding Rabada’s inclusion, saying that he looks forward to playing against the world’s No 1 bowler.

‘It’s exciting,’ Lyon said. ‘As Australian cricketers, we always want to play against the best players in the world and KG is the No 1 bowler in the world. It’s going to be another great challenge for all of us.

‘We were preparing for him to play. Our preparation yesterday and today has been outstanding.’

Lyon added that he respected the ICC’s decision after Rabada’s appeal went in the Proteas’ favour.

‘It’s not for me to sit here and say if it’s the right one or wrong one. I respect it,’ he said. ‘Let’s just move on and go play some good cricket. It’s 1-1 and there are two massive Test matches to go. We have to play our best to beat South Africa.’