Australian spinner Nathan Lyon has declared teammate Josh Hazlewood the best fast bowler in the world.
Speaking to the media ahead of the first Test at the Gabba on Thursday, Lyon said Hazlewood, despite being ranked No.6 in the ICC Test bowling rankings, has a better repertoire and more control than anyone in the world.
While Starc is largely considered the spearhead of the Australian pace attack, Hazlewood is the most potent of the trio by some margin, according to Lyon.
"I think Josh Hazlewood, in my book, is the best fast bowler in the world and by a long way," Lyon said.
"He can do anything.
"He's quick, he can bowl bumpers, he can control the new ball, he can swing it in and out, he can reverse it.
"I haven't seen a bowler who's got that control in a long time.
"I'm happy for you to put it in the headline. He's the best fast bowler in the world."
While Hazlewood may not be as lightening quick as Cummins or Starc, his record speaks for itself. The 26-year-old New South Welshman has taken 118 Test wickets in 31 matches, at an average of 25.75, with best bowling figures of 6/67.
Lyon also said he expects Australia's whole bowling unit to cause England a plethora of problems.
"I think our bowling squad is actually quite strong, and it's probably the strongest attack we've had in a couple of years if I'm being brutally honest," Lyon added.
"To have these guys all up and firing together, it's exciting.
"I'm very confident that our bowling squad can take 20 wickets.
"There's also some cracks underneath the surface with the (England) fellows who've come out here (in 2013-14).
"Alastair Cook, he faced Mitchell Johnson out here.
"Joe Root (current England captain) got dropped last time he was out here.
"So there are some cracks under the surface that we can hopefully … crack them right open again and put them under pressure."
