You don’t write off champions like Virat Kohli: Nathan Lyon

Virat Kohli and Nathan Lyon. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

Virat Kohli has been going through a prolonged lean patch in red-ball cricket but Nathan Lyon is not willing to underestimate his presence during the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. The Australian off-spinner lauded the former India captain’s overall record and said that he has nothing but respect for him.

In his last 60 Test innings, Kohli has managed to notch up just two centuries and 11 half-centuries. In 2024, he is averaging a paltry 22.72 across six Tests. The most recent series against New Zealand also turned out to be a nightmare for the 36-year-old as he finished with just 93 runs from six innings.

However, despite the wretched form in recent months, Lyon remains wary of the threat the talismanic batter can pose to the Australian side during the highly-anticipated five-match Test series, where crucial World Test Championship (WTC) points will be at stake.

“Overall, look at his record. You don’t write off champions. I’ve got nothing but respect for Virat. I want to get him out, there’s no point in hiding behind that, but it’s challenging. It’s been pretty amazing competing against him so many times,” Lyon was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au.

Also Read: Don’t think the Australians will be as silly to pick up a fight with Virat Kohli: Michael Clarke

“Him and Smithy (Steve Smith) are probably the best two batters in our last era of this last decade,” said the 36-year-old off-spinner.

They’re dangerous all the time: Nathan Lyon

India are coming into the series on the back of an embarrassing 0-3 Test series whitewash at home against New Zealand. However, Lyon isn’t taking India lightly as he referred to Rohit Sharma and Co. as a dangerous team full of star players.

“They’re dangerous all the time. They’re a side full of superstars. They’ve got so much experience, but talented youth as well and you can never write off that. I was fascinated by that series to New Zealand, but we’re expecting the best India that we’ve played against for a number of years now,” Lyon noted.