Australian spinner Nathan Lyon completed a huge milestone in Test cricket, as he became only the third bowler from his country to take 500 plus wickets in Test cricket. Before him, Shane Warne (708) and Glenn McGrath (563) are the only bowlers from down under to achieve this feat.
Not only did Lyon complete 500 Test wickets, but Australia also defeated Pakistan by 360 runs in the first Test to go 1-0 up in the three-match series.
“For a young kid growing up in country New South Wales, 500 wickets was a bloody long way away. It was bloody hard work, but something I’m very proud about. Nice to get back after the injury, I have not taken anything for granted, especially playing for Australia, appreciate every moment of my career,” Lyon told broadcasters.
Lyon, who made his debut in 2011, marked his comeback for the Aussies following a calf injury he picked up during the Ashes this summer. With a total of 501 wickets now, the off-spinner is Australia’s third-leading wicket-taker in the format.
AUS v PAK 2023-24: WATCH- Nathan Lyon completes 500 Test wickets; R Ashwin congratulates him
"I still pinch myself when I see my name next to those guys. I'm not even next below those guys in my eyes. Shane Warne is the greatest to ever play this game in my opinion and Glenn McGrath's record speaks volumes. To edge closer to those guys, it's something I'm proud of. I was pretty confident about it, everyone said the height was okay the only issue was it might have been sliding down the leg, but thankfully it was three reds. 500 wickets is pretty amazing, and to do it here and contribute to a pretty amazing team win makes it even better
I don't think it's probably hit me yet. But there's obviously been a lot of hard work going into the journey and I've had a lot more bad days and good days but to be out there in the middle of back after doing a calf with a special group of people, it's pretty special to be able to take 500 in my first Test back,” Lyon said.
The second Test between Australia and Pakistan will be played from December 26 in Melbourne.
(ANI/ESPNCricinfo inputs)
