In a thrilling encounter at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Nathan Lyon etched his name in cricket history by surpassing Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin to become the seventh leading wicket-taker in Test cricket. This achievement came after a stellar performance during the fourth Test of the ongoing series between Australia and India, where Lyon claimed five wickets, contributing significantly to ?Australia’s 184-run victory on December 30.

A historic Boxing Day Test

The Boxing Day Test is a prestigious event in the cricket calendar, and Lyon made it memorable by delivering an exceptional performance. He recorded figures of 3 for 96 in the first innings and followed it up with 2 for 37 in the second, ultimately sealing the match by dismissing Mohammed Siraj with a perfectly executed delivery that trapped him in front of the stumps. This pivotal wicket not only secured victory for the Australian team but also marked a significant milestone in Lyon’s career.

Also READ: AUS vs ??IND: Snickometer operator explains the absence of a spike during Yashasvi Jaiswal’s dismissal

The numbers game: Nathan Lyon vs Ravichandran Ashwin

With this match, Lyon now boasts a total of 538 Test wickets from 133 matches, surpassing Ashwin’s tally of 537 wickets from 106 matches. Ashwin, who announced his retirement just days prior on December 18, had been a formidable opponent throughout his career, establishing himself as one of the best spinners in modern cricket. The competition between these two spinners has been intense, with both players pushing each other to greater heights over the years.

All-time leading wicket-takers

Lyon’s achievement places him among an elite group of ?bowlers. The list of the top wicket-takers in Test hist??ory is as follows:

Equaling Ashwin’s World Test Championship record

Additionally, with his five-wicket haul in this match, Lyon has equalled Ashwin’s record for the most wickets taken in the World Test Championship (WTC), with both spinners now sitting at 195 wickets. The race to break this record is heating up as both Lyon and Australian captain Pat Cummins have an opportunity to surpass Ashwin’s m??ark in the upcom?ing fifth Test scheduled to start on January 3, 2025.

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Anushka Sharma and Athiya Shetty left heartbroken ??as Virat Kohli’s MCG performance falls flat on fina??l day

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The ongoing fourth Test between Australia and India at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) has not only been a showcase of cricketing prowess but also a battleground of verbal exchanges, commonly known as sledging. On Day 2, a notable incident occurred between Australian spinner Nathan Lyon and Indian batter KL Rahul, which has? since sparked discussions among cricket fans an??d analysts alike.

Nathan Lyon welcomes KL Rahul with a banter

As Rahul stepped onto the field to bat at No. 3, having returned to this position after being demoted from his previous role as an opener, Lyon seized the moment to taunt him. In a video that quickly went viral on social media, Lyon was heard asking Rahul, “What did you do wrong to bat one down?” This remark was not just a casual comment; it was a pointed jab at the Indian batting order’s recent struggles and the decisions made by the Indian team management regarding player positions.

Despite the provocation, Rahul displayed commendable composure. Instead of reacting to Lyon’s jibe, he focused on his game, reflecting a maturity that has often been questioned in high-pressure situations. This incident followed another tense moment in the match involving Virat Kohli and Australian debutant Sam Konstas, highlighting? the charged atm??osphere of the Test series.

Also WATCH: Pat Cummins knocks out KL Rahul with an unplayable delivery on ?Day 2 of the AUS vs IND Test

Here’s the video:

pic.twitter.com/MfFiZuEvRc

— hsns (@sharmahu45) December 27, 2024

Rohit Sharma’s continuous struggles

While Lyon’s taunt may have added spice to the match, it was Rohit Sharma‘s performance that continued to be a focal point of concern for Indian fans. The captain’s dismal form persisted as he was dismissed for just 3 runs, falling victim to a short ball from Pat Cummins that he misplayed into the air. This dismissal marked Cummins’ seventh wicket of Rohit in Test cricket, raising questions about Rohit’s ability to lead from the front during this crucial series.

At the end of Tea session, India found themselves in a precarious position at 51/2 after Rahul was also dismissed shortly before tea by another excellent delivery from Cummins. The pressure was mounting on India’s batting lineup as they faced a daunting target following Australia’s mammoth first-innings score of 474 runs.

The sledging and on-field banter are part and parcel of Te??st cricket, especially in an intense series like this one. However, they also reflect deeper issues within the teams. For India, the batting order has been under scrutiny, particularly with Rohit struggling to find form. The decisions made by team management regard?ing player positions have significant implications for team morale and performance.

Also WATCH: Steve Smith’s unlucky dismissal after an outstanding century on Day 2 of the AUS vs IND? 4th Test

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One of cricket’s most intense and storied rivalries returns as India will face Australia in the first Test, which will consist of five games, of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 on November 22 in Perth.

India’s recent triumphs clouded by doubts

Over the past decade, India have asserted their dominance, winning the coveted trophy four consecutive times, with historic triumphs in 2018/19 and 2020/21. This time, the stakes are higher than ever, with critical World Test Championship (WTC) points and a ticket to the Lord’s final on the line.

While Rohit Sharma‘s men enter the series fresh off a commanding 3-0 series whitewash against New Zealand at home, the team faces mounting pressure. Critics have questioned whether India’s experienced stalwarts can still deliver on the big stage, especially in challenging overseas conditions. Perth’s pace-friendly surface will be a stern?? test? for India’s lineup, which has historically relied on its strong batting core and a versatile bowling attack.

Nathan Lyon reveals the toughest Indian batter

Australia’s ace spinner Nathan Lyon, who has dismissed Kohli seven times in Test cricket, acknowledges the Indian batter’s threat, calling him “the toughest batter I’ve ever faced,”.

Speaking to Fox Cricket, Lyon, reflecting on the elite batters he has bowled to, named Virat Kohli as one of the greatest players of the game, alongside legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, Virender Sehwag and Rohit Sharma.

Highlighting Kohli’s exceptional skill, Lyon praised his ability to play spin, his lightning-fast hands, and his remarkable knack for picking up length quickly, calling it “incredible.” Despite the dismissals, Kohli has averaged a formidable 75.6 against Lyon and scored run 529 runs in the longest format, setting up an enthralling duel between two seasoned campaigners.

“I have bowled against some of the greats—genuine greats of the game – from Tendulkar, Dravid, Laxman, Sehwag, to Rohit. There’s a lot of guys. I know everyone will probably sit here and pick Virat, and there’s probably a fair reason for that. He’s one of the greats of the game already. The ability for him to play spin, how fast his hands are, and how quickly he picks up the length is incredible,” Lyon said.

Also READ: Team India’s flare in Australia: From strugg?les to historic triumphs in Test cricket

Australia’s trump card and champion under the spotlight

Lyon, with a remarkable 530 Test wickets in 129 matches, remains a key figure in Australia’s bowling arsenal. The 36-year-old off-spinner has historically troubled Indian batters with his flight, turn, and control. Lyon’s experience will be vital in supporting Australia’s formidable pace attack in Perth. His head-to-head rivalry with Kohli adds an extra layer of intrigue, with Lyon eager to exploit the batter’s recent vulnerabilities and lead Australia’s charge.

The series opener brings renewed focus on Kohli, one of the most prolific Test batters of th??e modern era. Although Kohli has en??dured a lean run in red-ball cricket since 2020, his record in Australia is nothing short of exceptional. Across 13 Tests on Australian soil, Kohli has amassed 1352 runs at an impressive average of 54.08, with six centuries and four half-centuries. As the backbone of India’s batting lineup, his form could determine the series outcome.

Also READ: AUS vs IND 2024, 1st Test: Optus Stadium Pitch Report, Perth ?Test stats and records

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In a preview of what’s to come in the upcoming Border Gavaskar Trophy, veteran off-spinner Nathan Lyon bowled a stunning delivery to dismiss his Australia teammate Travis Head during the Sheffield Shield 2024/25 season.

Nathan Lyon dismisses Travis Head with a stunning delivery

In the second innings of South Australia, Lyo??n bowled a brilliant off-break that completely bamboozled Head, who was only able to score 10 runs off eight balls. Lyon came around the wicket and delivered a ball that Head thought would turn back into him. However, the delivery spun sharply away, beating the bat and crashing into the stumps, leaving the Australian batter visibly stunned.

Here’s the video:

Nathan Lyon knocks over Travis Head! #SheffieldShield pic.twitter.com/8qXQai4D38

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) October 10, 2024

Lyon’s wicket of Head was a key moment in the game and demonstrated the off-s??pinner’s ability to produce magic when needed. His performance in the match will undoubtedly give him confidence heading into the Test series against India, where he will be expected to lead Australia’s spin attack.

Also WATCH: Nathan Lyon’s hilarious search ?for red ball e?nds with white ball during Sheffield Shield 2024

Alex Carey and Nathan McSweeney save South Australia  

While Lyon’s dismissal of Head grabbed the headlines, the match itself was a dramatic affair, with South Australia managing to pull off a hard-fought draw against New South Wales. The visitors, chasing a daunting target of 389 for victory, were in deep trouble after Lyon triggered a middle-order collapse. South Australia was reeling at 4 for 9 at one point, but thanks to brilliant centuries from Alex Carey and Nathan McSweeney, they were able to salvage the match.

Carey played a superb knock of 111 runs, while McSweeney finished unbeaten on 127. Carey and  McSweeney’s partnership helped South Australia recover from a precarious position and ensured they avoided defeat.

In the first innings, New South Wales posted a strong total of 366, led by Sam Konstas’ superb knock of 152. Philippe contributed 56 runs, allowing New South Wales to take control e??arly in the game.

In response, South Australia struggled, with Lyon’s five-wicket haul (5 for 47) restricting them to 260. Despite a gritty 90 from Carey, South Australia couldn’t match New South Wales’ first-innings total.

New South Wales declared their second innings at 282 for 6, with Konstas adding another century to his tally (105) and Moises Henriques chipping in with 52. South Aust??ralia were left needing to survive the final day, which they managed thanks to the brilliant efforts of Carey and McSweeney, who steered them to 309 for 5 at the close of play.

Also READ: Rohit Sharma likely to miss one of the first tw?o Tests in crucia?l Australia series

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Cricket fields often witness hilarious moments that entertain fans and players alike. Whether its fielders chasing a runaway ball, equipment malfunctions, or players slipping mid-run, the sport provides its fair share of comedic relief. One such funny moment recently occurred during the Sheffield Shield, involving veteran Australian spinner Nathan Lyon.

Nathan Lyon’s comical moment in Sheffield Shield 2024

During a Sheffield Shield 2024 match between New South Wales and South Australia in Sydney, Lyon found himself in a bizarre situation. After a South Australian batter launched the ball into the bushes for a six, Lyon and his teammates went in search of the red ball. Amidst the confusion, Lyon emerged holding a ball, but to everyone’s amusement, it was a white one! The scene left the commentators and fans in stitches, and the video of the incident quickly went viral on social media.

Here is the video:

Test spinner Nathan Lyon searching in the snake pit, that Travis head smacked for 6. In the bushes of NSW, which have venomous red black belly snakes Unreal. He did find a cricket ball. But the wrong color. HOWEVER! We did find the red one eventually #SheffieldShield pic.twitter.com/eRqPidRxod

— coach lucas (jobless) (@lucasr15sky) October 9, 2024

Also WATCH: Marnus Labuschagne surprises fans wi?th unorthodox field setting; bow?ls bouncers in Sheffield Shield

Lyon’s impressive performance with the ball

Despite the comical episode, Lyon remained focused on his primary role and delivered a stellar bowling performance. He claimed an impressive 5-wicket haul, helping to bowl out South Australia for 260 in 86.3 overs. Lyon’s figures of 24.3-8-47-5 included key wickets of Alex Carey, Daniel Drew, and Nathan McAndrew, proving once agai?n why he is one o?f the finest spinners in the game.

Fans await Lyon’s battle against Indian batters in BGT 2024-25

With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 just around the corner, cricket fans are eagerly awaiting the battle between Lyon and India’s strong batting lineup. Lyon, who has been training hard for the upcoming five-Test series, is keen to test his skills against India’s renowned spin-playing batters. His performances in domestic cricket are only building anticipation for what promises to be a thrilling series.

Also READ: Aust?ralia Domes?tic One-Day Cup 2024/25 Schedule: Date, Match Time, Venue, Broadcast & Live Streaming details

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Former England cricketer Monty Panesar, known for his prowess as a spinner, recently weighed in on one of cricket’s long-standing debates: who is the better off-spinner between Nathan Lyon and Ravichandran Ashwin? Both bowlers rank among the top wicket-takers in Test history, with Lyon standing seventh on the all-time list with 530 wickets from 129 Tests and Ashwin close behind with 522 wickets in just 101 matches. Both spin wizards will soon be seen in action in the Border Gavaskar Trophy (BGT).

Monty Panesar settles the debate: Ravichandran Ashwin vs Nathan Lyon

In Panesar’s assessment, Lyon holds a slight edge over Ashwin due to his remarkable performances on Australian soil as it’s renowned for its fast, bouncy pitches that offer little assistance to spinners. Despite these challenging conditions, Lyon has dominated opposition batters with consistency, making him a potent weapon in Australia’s bowling arsenal. His ability to thrive in a country where spinners generally struggle underscores his skill and resilience.

“I think I see Nathan Lyon in my opinion. Yes, he is a better bowler,” Panesar was quoted as saying by NDTV Sports.

Also READ:?? Here’s why Muttiah Muralitharan believe??s his 800 Test wickets record will remain unbroken

Nightmare for the batters

However, Panesar also acknowledged that Ashwin reigns supreme in Asian conditions, where pitches are more conducive to spin. With his deep understanding of how to extract turn and bounce from subcontinental surfaces, Ashwin has been a nightmare for batters in India and across the region. Panesar emphasized that Ashwin’s all-round abilities, especially his contributions with the bat, further elevate his status. As a bowler who can think like a batter, Ashwin’s mental acumen allows him to outfox opposition players with remarkable consistency.

“But I think Ashwin is a better bowler in India. I think he thinks like a batter when he bowls. He is able to pick out the weakness and he can exploit it, and that is his biggest advantage. He bats really well when he bowls; he knows what the batters are thinking,” Panesar concluded.

Cricketing brilliance on full display 

Ashwin’s brilliance was on full display in the first Test of the two-match series against Bangladesh at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. At 38, Ashwin continues to? defy age, delivering world-class performances with both bat and ball. His all-round efforts in this match earned him the Player?? of the Match award, with a splendid century and a match-defining six-wicket haul.

In a tricky situation during India’s first innings, Ashwin played a pivotal role by scoring a crucial 113 off 133 balls, lifting India from a precarious position. The home crowd witnessed Ashwin at his best as he guided his team to a formidable total. Later, as the pitch began to offer assistance to spinners, Ashwin ran through the Bangladeshi batting order, picking up six wickets for 88 runs in 21 overs. His spell, full of guile and control, helped India register an emphatic 280-run victory, proving o??nce again why he is one of the finest spinners in world cricket.

Also READ: Sri Lanka great Rangana Herath re?veals his top 5 favourite spinners in modern cricket

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As the anticipation builds for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, Australia’s veteran off-spinner Nathan Lyon has predicted the scoreline of the highly anticipated five-match Test series between Australia and India. In a candid conversation with Alyssa Healy on the Willow Talk podcast, Lyon shared his thoughts about Australia’s chances, and his excitement for the series, which has become one of the fiercest rivalries in Test cricket.

Nathan Lyon’s excitement for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy

During the podcast, Lyon expressed his excitement for the upcom??ing series, revealing that he had been thinking about the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for a while now??.

“It’s been 10 years since we have won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. I started thinking about this series when England were over in India,” said Lyon. He highlighted his? love for the game and how the series against Indi??a is something that has been on his mind for quite some time.

For Australia, reclaiming the Border-Gavaskar Trophy has been a challenging task, as India has dominated the rivalry in recent years. Lyon, who has been a key figure in Australia??’s bowl??ing attack, knows the significance of this series for both teams, making his prediction even more intriguing.

Lyon shares his prediction for BGT 2024-25

In a bold declaration, Lyon confidently predicted that Australia would emerge victorious with a 5-0 scoreline. He stated: “My prediction is 5-0 to Australia.”

His optimism reflects the confidence that ?the Australian camp seems to have ahead of the series, despite the fact that winning in India remains one of the toughest tasks in world cricket. India’s home dominance, especially in Test matches, has been formi?dable. However, Lyon believes that if Australia’s top-order batters can deliver, they stand a great chance of turning the tide.

Also READ: Aussie icon Ricky ??Ponting predicts the scoreline o??f Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25

Lyon highlights a way to counter India’s bowling attack

Lyon emphasized that Australia’s chances of success heavily rely on their top-order batters scoring big runs. He specifically mentioned that Aus??tralia will need centuries, not just in the low hundreds, but big, match-winning scores to counter India’s strong pace attack led by Jasprit Bumrah.

The off-spinner pointed out the likes of Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, and Travis Head as key players in this effort.

“We need big runs. We need the guys who are talented enough to get the hundred. The likes of Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, and Travis Head, all the top order. I don’t want 101 or 107, I want 180 and 200,” he added.

Can Australia break the 10-Year drought?

Notably, Australia last won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in 2014-15, and since then, India have retained the trophy in both home and away series. The 2024-25 series presents a?n opportunity for Australia to reclaim the title, but it won’t come easy against an Indian side that has been dominant at home for the past decade.

Lyon’s bold prediction of a 5-0 whitewash is sure to spark debates among fans and analysts alike, but it also reflects the growing confidence in the Australian camp. With players like Smith and Labuschagne in fine?? form and Head emerging as a reliable top-order ba?tter, Australia certainly have the firepower. However, India’s depth in both batting and bowling, especially with a lethal pace attack led by Bumrah, presents a formidable challenge.

Also READ: India or Australia ? Ada??m Gilchrist picks th??e winner of the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25

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Australian off-spinner Nathan Lyon has opened up about the immense pressure of being compared to one of cricket’s greatest spin bowlers. In a candid interview with Sky Cricket, Lyon, who has been a pivotal figure in Australia‘s bowling attack for over a decade, shared his thoughts on living in the shadow of Shane Warne and how it has shaped his career.

The 36-year-old Lyon, who made his Test debut in 2011, has carved out an impressive career with 530 wickets in just 129 Test matches. Despite his remarkable achievements, Lyon admitted that he still feels overshadowed by the legacy of the cricketing great, even as he solidifies his place in the sport’s history.

Nathan Lyon opens up on his comparison with Shane Warne

Lyon, reflecting on his career, stated that despite playing over 100 Test matches, he still feels overshadowed by Shane Warne. However, Lyon is now conten?t and comfortable with this reality.

“I still feel in the shadow of Shane Warne now, and I’m 129 Test matches in with 530 wickets, the thing is, I’m happy with that, and I’m comfortable with that now,” the Australian bowler confessed.

Lyon’s admission highlights the tremendous weight that comes with following in the footsteps of such an iconic player. Warne, regarded as one of the greatest spin bowlers of all-time, set an almost unattainable benchmark, and Lyon acknowledged that living under this legacy wasn’t easy.

“A lot of us felt the pressure of Shane Warne’s shadow… and it probably took me a good five, six, seven years to understand that pressure is a privilege. And if you’ve got pressure, you’re OK, you’re doing OK, enjoy it,” Lyon remarked.

Also READ: “Will be a ma?ssive challenge for all us bowlers� Na??than Lyon in awe of India’s rising star

Lyon talks about living up to Warne’s legacy

Throughout his career, Lyon has consistently been a key figure for Australia, known for his ability to deliver ?under pressure in crucial moments. Yet, even with his personal success, he remains humble about his place in the grander schem?e of the game.

“I’m never going to be able to do what Warnie did. Warnie’s once-in-a-generation, he’s the greatest to play the game in my opinion, emphasizing the respect he holds for his predecessor, all I want to do is make my family proud, make Shane Warne proud, and just go out there and compete,” the off-spinner added.

As Lyon continues his cricketing journey, his comments reflect both a deep respect for Warne’s legacy and a firm grasp of his own identity as a cricketer. While he may still feel in the shadow of the legendary spinner, Lyon has crafted a career that stands tall in its own right, built on skill, perseverance, and an enduring love for the game.

Also READ: Jonty Rhodes reacts hilariously after being overlooked for?? Team India’s fielding coach role

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As the cricketing world eagerly awaits the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, set to kick off on November 22 in Perth, excitement is building for what promises to be a thrilling contest between two of the sport’s biggest powerhouses – India and Australia. Th??e highly anticipated series will feature five Test matches, including the traditional New Year’s Test at the? iconic Sydney Cricket Ground.

With the stage set, cricket fans are bracing for an exhilarating ride, especially as?? India comes in as the defending champions, having clinched th??e last series 2-1.

Nathan Lyon shares his views on the dynamic young batter

Among the many intriguing storylines heading into the series, one that stands out is veteran Australian spinner Nathan Lyon‘s admiration for India’s rising star, Yashasvi Jaiswal. Lyon, widely regarded as one of the best spin bowlers of his generation, admitted that the young Indian opener? i?s likely to pose a significant challenge for the Australian bowlers.

In a recent interview, Lyon spoke highly of Jaiswal’s batting prowess, particularly referencing his outstanding performance during the Test series against England earlier this year.

“I haven’t come across him [Yashasvi Jaiswal] yet, but that will be a massive challenge for all us bowlers,” Lyon told ESPNcricinfo.

He went on to praise Jaiswal’s skil?l and technique??, noting that the 22-year-old left-hander has already made a mark on the international stage.

“The way he played against England, I watched that quite closely and thought that was quite amazing,” Lyon added, acknowledgi??ng the threat Jaiswal could? pose in the upcoming series.

The off-spinner also revealed that he had been gathering insights on how to handle Jaiswal, drawing on discussions with England’s? left-arm spinner Tom Hartley, who faced India earlier this year.

â€?œI had some really good chats with Tom Hartley about different ways he went about it to different guys, which I found quite interesting,â€?/em> said the Australian bowler.