No spin bowling alternative beyond Lyon a 'real issue': Shane Warne

London: Former Australian cricketer Shane Warne believes that the lack of bench strength in the spin bowling department is a 'real issue' in Test cricket for Australia.

In the Ashes 2019, Australia didn't select any front line spinner except Nathan Lyon.

"Luckily we have such a quality spinner in Lyon, he's done so well in all conditions around the world, held that attack together, but if something happened to him it would be a real issue," ESPNcricinfo quoted Warne as saying.

"It's important for Australia - I'm not saying Lyon is retiring or anything, he's got a lot more in him - that if something does happen for Australia that someone could set up," he added.

Lyon has played 91 Tests and has taken 363 wickets at an average of 32.30.