Australia’s bowlers want Tim Paine behind the stumps for the first Ashes Test against England, according to spin king Nathan Lyon.

Paine quit as Test captain in disgrace last week over a historical text message scandal, but is keen to keep playing.

Selectors must decide whether to cut him loose and start afresh or show loyalty amid a groundswell of support to keep him in the team for the opening clash in Brisbane on 8 December.

Opener Marcus Harris on Wednesday said Paine had the backing of the Australia squad and Lyon – who is one wicket away from claiming 400 Test scalps – reiterated this.

“The selectors always said they were going to pick the best available XI and, in my eyes, Tim Paine is the best keeper in the world,” he said. “I know I want him.

“Every bowler’s relationship with him is exceptional and Tim Paine is a very loveable guy and a very well-respected guy within the change room.”

Lyon added that he could “100% guarantee he has the full support of the Australian change room”.

“Tim made a mistake, he’s owned it, for me that shows great courage, to be honest.”

Paine quit ahead of a series of lewd text messages with a female colleague in 2017 being made public.

He was investigated at the time and cleared of any breach of cricket’s code of conduct, but said he was stepping down as skipper because his actions “do not meet the standard of an Australian cricket captain”.

His replacement is yet to be announced with Pat Cummins and Steve Smith the front-runners to lead the side.

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© Agence France-Presse