Australian spinner Nathan Lyon praised New Zealand batter Rachin Ravindra, describing him as a rising "superstar" after his impressive performance on Day 3 of the first Test in Wellington.

Ravindra's impressive unbeaten knock of 56 took New Zealand to 111/3 at stumps on day three, as the hosts are chasing 369 runs to win the first Test of the two-match series against Australia.

Lyon, who bowled to the young batter, acknowledged Ravindra's talent and potential to excel in international cricket. However, the senior spinner was confident about Australia’s chances to win the first Test against New Zealand in Wellington.

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Nathan Lyon told media: “Rachin Ravindra seems like a really good player. This is the first time I've bowled to him -- I watched a lot of him during the World Cup and he's going to be a superstar. But I know if we can put pressure on them and challenge their defence for long periods of time, hopefully we can crack them.”

Reflecting on Australia's second innings, Lyon lauded the brilliance of New Zealand's part-time spinner Glenn Phillips, who recorded his career-best figures of 5/45 to dismantle Australia's batting lineup on Day 3 in Wellington.

Notably, Australians were bowled out for just 164 runs in their second innings against New Zealand. Lyon signed off by saying, “Glenn Phillips capitalized on the conditions, snaring career-best figures of 5-45 as Australia were bundled out for 164 in their second innings.”

(With AFP Inputs)