Proteas consider Lyon bigger threat than Johnson-led Oz pacers

World No.1 Test side South Africa has hinted that they are keen to play on green wickets against Australia that suit fast bowlers.

Batsman Faf Du Plessis said the Australian attack is perhaps closest to the SA bowling unit, adding that Mitchell Johnson has express pace, Peter Siddle's bowling is similar to Vernon Philander's style, while Ryan Harris provides the bounce.

He further said that Australian spinner Nathan Lyon is bowling very well at the moment and it would suit South Africa to prepare a greener wicket to neutralize him.

Du Plessis also said that Australian opener David Warner cannot be much effective on a greener wicket.

His sentiments were echoed by respected commentator Mike Haysman, who surprisingly suggested that Lyon, rather than the much-vaunted quicks led by Mitchell Johnson, could end up being the difference between the two sides, News.co.au reports.

Haysman said an energised, confident and vastly improved Lyon, given the correct surfaces, could become Australia's trump card as he constructs a valuable holding pattern early, then spins with an attacking nature later.