AUS Vs PAK: Glenn McGrath Lists 1 Australian Bowler Who Will Break His Record

Former Australian Pacer and Legend of the game, Glenn McGrath has wished a lot of luck to Aussie off-spinner Nathan Lyon for trying to break the record of most wickets by an Australian in Test cricket. McGrath is currently the 2nd highest wicket-taker for the Baggy Greens in Red-ball cricket with the Legendary Late Shane Warne holding the first place.

Among all the prolific fast bowlers that Australia have produced throughout these years, McGrath who is nicknamed, the Pigeon, racked up 563 wickets in Tests since making his debut in November 1993 against New Zealand at Perth. He played 124 matches before retiring in 2007 after the conclusion of the 2006/07 Ashes series at home.

His effortless ability to swing the ball and his eye-pleasing simple bowling action used to be a nightmare for all the batters that faced him during his playing days. He is the highest wicket-taking bowler among Australian pacers with Dennis Lillee holding the 2nd spot with 355 wickets and Mitchell Starc holding the 3rd with 342 wickets under his belt.

Nathan Lyon who recently achieved the 500 Test wickets milestone in the 2nd Test against Pakistan at Melbourne, needs 59 more wickets to surpass McGrath’s tally. Lyon currently stands at 505 wickets in 124 matches since earning his debut cap back in 2011.

The 36-year-old completed this remarkable feat in the 2nd Innings by picking up 4 wickets for 73 runs in 19 overs. At this moment, Nathan Lyon is the closest to Glenn McGrath’s record and if he can play at least 30 test matches more, he will be able to overtake the Australian legend.

While speaking to the Press ahead of the 3rd Test between Australia and Pakistan at the Sydney Cricket Ground, Glenn McGrath said that he hopes and wishes that Nathan Lyon breaks his long-standing record and also praised the off-spinner for having such a wonderful career.

“To me, records are there for people to break. If ‘Lyono’ goes past (me), credit to him. He’s had an incredible career. I wish him all the best, I hope he goes past me. That’s what it’s about. I’ll still be the most wickets by a fast bowler, so at least I’ve got something up my sleeve.” – Glenn McGrath said.

“Reaching 700 Wickets Is a Different Kettle Of Fish”, Glenn McGrath Opines On Nathan Lyon Breaking Warne’s Record

The 53-year-old also spoke about whether Lyon could go anywhere near Shane Warne’s record of 708 Test wickets for Australia, claiming that it will be a little tough for him to do so and it also depends upon the number of matches, a 36-year-old Nathan Lyon can still play.

“Whether he gets to ‘Shano’, that might be a different kettle of fish. It’s up to him. He’s obviously bowling well, he knows the game so well. It’s totally up to him.” – Glenn McGrath added.

Meanwhile, Nathan Lyon will be back in action for Australia in the 3rd Test against Pakistan at the Sydney Cricket Ground and he will hope for a great outing in David Warner’s farewell Test match.