The Australian off-spinner, Nathan Lyon reckons that it’s still not an advantage for Australia, despite the fact that they will be playing the series-deciding fourth Test against an injury-ravaged Team India at a venue where the hosts’ have an unmatchable record. The seasoned campaigner refused to overlook the grit and shrewdness shown by the Indian team in the drawn third Test in Sydney.
Explaining the same during a virtual press conference, Nathan Lyon said, “I wouldn’t say that (Australia has the advantage). You look at the class throughout the Indian squad, yes they will be missing a couple of big players but they have got a talented squad they can pick from. As bowlers, we are very well suited for the Gabba and hopefully, we can put them into play nice and early when we have the ball in hand.”
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Australia head to the venue on the back of a fine record, having won 33, drawn 13, tied one, and lost eight out of the 55 Tests played at the Gabba.
Talking about Australia’s record at Gabba, Lyon said, “We do have an amazing record here at Gabba, we do have the confidence and we know how to play a really positive brand of cricket here at Brisbane. But we can’t rest on that. We know how talented India are and how hungry they are to win this series. Ashwin has bowled very well, I have said throughout my career that he is a world-class bowler.”
When asked about skipper Tim Paine, who came under fire after his verbal duel against Ashwin in the third Test, showed great character by owning up to his mistakes after the match. He also reflects on the highs and lows of his career, the off-spinner said he’s far from being done and is more motivated than ever.
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Lyon elaborated, “There’s been some highs and lows. The Adelaide Test against India in 2014, that was probably the biggest high in my career but you look at Edgbaston and that is another amazing high, then you go to Leeds and it was the other end of the ladder. This is my 100th and I’m far from being done, I’m still as hungry as ever and want to go and play as much cricket as I can for Australia.”
