Xtra Time Web Desk: Australia’s veteran off-spinner Nathan Lyon reached the milestone of 500 test wickets during the fourth day of the first test match against Pakistan at Perth Stadium on Sunday. Lyon trapped Faheem Ashraf leg before to claim his 500th wicket in tests.
Team India’s ace off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin took to microblogging site X to congratulate Lyon. Ashwin wrote, 8th bowler and only the 2nd off spinner in history to pick 500 test wickets. @NathLyon421 congrats mate”
It is worth mentioning that Lyon had recently showered praise on Ashwin, describing him as one of his ‘biggest coaches,’ acknowledging the learning opportunity presented by playing against such a seasoned opponent. Ashwin responded to Lyon’s appreciation and invited him for a home and away catch-up to decide upon retirement.
Ashwin, too is closely following Lyon at 489 wickets. The veteran Indian spinner will get an opportunity to inch closer to the milestone as he will get an opportunity to play seven test matches on the trot, two against South Africa and five at home against England.
It has been a roller coaster ride for Lyon who took five wickets on debut against Sri Lanka in 2011. Lyon, having worked as a groundsman at the Adelaide Oval two seasons prior to making his test debut and going to reach the milestone of 500 test wickets is a phenomenal achievement. He is now the third Australian bowler after legendary Shane Warne and Glenn McGrath to join the 500 test wickets club.