3rd Test: Australian Players Taken Aback by India's Response to Avoiding Follow-On, Says Lyon
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Brisbane, Dec 18 (NationPress) Nathan Lyon, the seasoned off-spinner from Australia, stated that several of his teammates were taken aback by the Indian team's reaction to successfully dodging the follow-on during the fourth day of the third Test at the Gabba.
At the Gabba, the final wicket partnership between Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep was crucial in helping India steer clear of the follow-on and prevent a possible innings defeat. The moment Akash connected with a thick outside edge for four runs off Pat Cummins, it sparked celebratory reactions and high-fives among captain Rohit Sharma, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and star batter Virat Kohli.
“A few of us discussed how surprised we were by their reaction. We have performed well and led the game to this point. It’s frustrating, but we still sit here in the dressing room 185 runs ahead. I genuinely believe that if we bat well, we can aim for an Australian victory,” Lyon commented.
“We cannot control the weather. What we can manage is our approach. Especially against Jasprit Bumrah, who has been outstanding this series. (India's reaction) suggested that their top-order appeared reluctant to bat if we enforced the follow-on. Trying to impose the follow-on was quite difficult with Josh sidelined,” Lyon shared with Fox Sports during the rain delay on the fifth day.
With only 196 overs bowled in the Test thus far, Lyon expressed disappointment about the weather interfering with the match, especially after losing Hazlewood to a calf injury. “It’s genuinely frustrating. This has been the pattern this week. I still feel there’s plenty of cricket left in this game; we just need the weather to cooperate,” he remarked.
“Mitch and Pat have been exceptional for Australia for many years, and I feel fortunate to be part of this Australian bowling lineup. Their work ethic is commendable. We take pride in our fielding, following the examples set by the Australian players before us,” Lyon noted.
Lyon also shared his thoughts on India utilizing three different spinners throughout the series, expressing his desire to see Ravichandran Ashwin feature in the last two Tests in Melbourne and Sydney.
“It’s an intriguing question. You have someone sitting on the bench with over 530 Test wickets, and I’m walking to the ground, pondering, 'What is happening?'. He has demonstrated that he is one of the greatest spin bowlers to have ever played this game. I expect Ash to participate in Melbourne and Sydney,” he stated.
“It surprises me more than anything else. That’s the caliber of Indian cricketers in their squad. You have Ashwin with around 530 wickets (536) and Jadeja over 300 wickets (319). It’s quite remarkable to see such quality players on the bench. It’s a good dilemma to have,” he added.
“I have nothing but respect. The way Ash has conducted himself on and off the field over the years is commendable, and his skill set is extraordinary. We have differing opinions on various matters, but there’s no right or wrong,” Lyon concluded.
“Having discussions with a bowler like Ashwin is fantastic. From different variations to various tactics, understanding his approach is enlightening. We are both distinct, so our conversation this morning was excellent, and I hope we can have more throughout the series and beyond,” he emphasized.
Lyon, who made his Test debut in 2011, concluded by sharing the advice he gave himself before his first match for Australia: “Trust yourself. I was quite fortunate to join a team with Michael Clarke as captain and numerous great players surrounding me to provide that support.”
