Win Projections to be updated soon
Australia’s off-spinner, Nathan Lyon, achieved a historic milestone in the ongoing AUS vs PAK 1st Test at the Optus Stadium in Perth, joining the elite club of bowlers with 500 Test wickets. Lyon became only the fourth spinner in the history of Test cricket to reach this remarkable feat, joining the likes of Shane Warne and Glenn McGrath.
The spinner’s journey to 500 wickets culminated in the second innings of the Perth Test, where he secured his 500th wicket with the dismissal of Faheem Ashraf. Lyon, the second Australian spinner to achieve this milestone after the legendary Warne, exhibited resilience as he waited for his moment in the 7th over after Australia’s pacers dominated the top and middle-order of the Pakistani side.
Having entered the Test match with 496 wickets to his name, Lyon showcased his bowling prowess by claiming three crucial wickets in the first innings, dismissing Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, and Aamer Jamal. The spinner’s dedication and skill were evident as he worked hard to achieve the milestone despite facing resistance from the Pakistani batsmen.
Lyon’s success spans across various opponents, with notable achievements against England and India in Test cricket. Out of his 500 wickets, 110 have come against England, and 121 have come against India, showcasing his effectiveness against top-quality batting line-ups.
The spinner reached the 500-wicket mark in his 123rd Test match, making him the fifth-fastest among the eight bowlers who have achieved this remarkable feat. Muttiah Muralitharan holds the record as the fastest to 500 wickets, achieving the milestone in just 87 Test matches.
Reflecting on the achievement ahead of the Test match, Lyon expressed admiration for India’s R Ashwin, acknowledging him as one of his great coaches in his cricketing career. Lyon emphasized the opportunity to learn from opponents, indicating the mutual respect between him and Ashwin.
“You look at Ashwin, he’s a world-class bowler and somebody I’ve watched closely from the start of his career We’ve gone head-to-head many times in different conditions around the world. I’ve got nothing but respect for Ashwin and the way he’s gone about it,” Lyon said on the eve of the Perth Test against Pakistan, as quoted by cricket.com.au.
“I’ve definitely learned from him. There’s an opportunity to learn from the people you play against, and without knowing it he’s probably been one of my biggest coaches in a way.
“It’s pretty amazing to see we’re both creeping up to that 500 mark, and we’ll see where we end up.
“Hopefully at the end of our career we’ll sit down and have a nice feed and a beer and talk about it,” he added.
As Lyon etches his name in cricketing history, the achievement adds a significant chapter to his illustrious career. The spinner’s contribution to the Australian bowling attack and his ability to consistently trouble batsmen make him a key asset for the team as they continue their battle against Pakistan in the ongoing Test series. Cricket enthusiasts worldwide celebrate Lyon’s accomplishment as he cements his place among the cricketing legends with 500 Test wickets.
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