Last Update: February 19, 2023, 09:25 IST
Australian spinner Nathan Lyon vs India (AP)
Nathan Lyon became the first Australian spinner and only the second in international cricket to take 100 wickets against India.
Ace Australia off-spinner Nathan Lyon took the 22nd five-wicket haul of his illustrious Test career on Saturday. On the second day of the ongoing Delhi Test, Lyon tore through the Indian top-order, with Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Cheteshwar Pujara being their main victims. With this feat, Lyon became the first Australian tweaker and only the second player in international cricket to take 100 wickets against Australia. India in the longest format of the game.
IND v OFF 2nd Test Day 3 – Live
India started playing this format in 1932. Since then, there have been only spinners who have crossed the 100-wicket mark against India. The first was Sri Lankan legend Muttiah Muralitharan, who took 105 wickets against India in 22 matches, including seven five-for and 10-wicket hauls. 13 years after Murali’s last Test against India in Galle in 2010, Lyon joined the club on Saturday by dismissing Cheteshwar Pujara.
Pujara walked out to bat in the first innings of his 100th Test but his much-anticipated innings was soon cut short by Lyon. The Australian spinner trapped India No. 3 in just one ball after clean-bowling the Indian skipper.
It was an interesting sight at the Arun Jaitley Stadium where the batsman walked back in his 100th Test after seven balls to spare while the bowler completed his 100th wicket against the opposition.
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Speaking after the day’s play, Lyon admitted that he was happy to be the party spoiler for India, referring to the epic ‘Gabba Haar’.
“Well, Gabba was my 100th Test. My dream of defending 300 at the Gabba was also shattered. I know this is his 100th Test. Fairy tales (you) do not like. But I have had some incredible battles with Pujara over the years. It has been wonderful,” Leone said with a smile.
Following a five-for from Lyon that helped Australia bundle out India for 262, Travis Head began his campaign on a great note. He remained unbeaten on 39 and took Australia to 61/1 in 12 overs at stumps on the second day.
Head strikes to give the visitors some quick runs. Marnus Labuschagne is supporting him by scoring 16 not out.
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