Nathan Lyon. (Photo Sourcer: X(Twitter)
Nathan Lyon, the crafty off-spinner, etched his name in cricket history by reaching the monumental feat of 500 Test wickets during the opening clash of the three-match Test series against Pakistan.
In a post-match press conference following the thrilling first Test against Pakistan, Australia’s skipper, Pat Cummins, didn’t mince words when he labeled spinner Nathan Lyon as the most important cog of their bowling attack. His milestone moment came in the second innings after the pacers had made early inroads into the Pakistani batting lineup.
“I don’t think it’s any secret that he (Lyon) is probably the most important cog in our bowling line-up,” Cummins said after Lyon’s brilliant performance in the match, as quoted by India Today.
The Aussie captain didn’t hold back in Lyon’s praises, highlighting his unique role in the team setup where he’s bowling 30 overs a day.
“This game is probably a little bit different. But most games where he’s bowling 30 overs a day, basically just put him down one end and he’s not going to go for many runs. He’s going to take a few wickets and then us quick bowlers can just rotate through the other end,” Cummins added.
Cummins, displaying unwavering confidence in Lyon’s abilities, predicted a bright future for the seasoned spinner and said that the Australian team missed him in England during this year’s Ashes series.
“No doubt he was missed over there in England (during this year’s Ashes series) for sure. As a captain, it makes it a lot easier knowing that bloke who has played 100-odd Test matches that knows his craft and can bowl pretty much in any conditions, you just let him get to work so it’s great having him back,” Cummins added.
Looking ahead, the Australian captain backed Lyon to continue his remarkable journey, foreseeing the spinner playing for another five years and potentially matching the legendary Shane Warne’s record of 708 wickets. Cricket enthusiasts will eagerly await Lyon’s next moves as the stage is set for the second Test commencing on December 26.