"Babar Azam Has Been A Pleasure To Play Against But..." - Nathan Lyon Says Ahead Of Test Series
Published - 01 Dec 2023, 01:33 PM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 12:23 AM
Veteran Australian spinner Nathan Lyon is eagerly anticipating the challenge of bowling against Babar Azam during the three-Test series against Pakistan. Nathan Lyon expressed admiration for Babar Azam, describing him as one of the best batters in the world.
Nathan Lyon has dismissed Babar Azam five times since 2016. Babar has scored 799 runs in 19 innings at an average of 44.39 against Australia in Test matches. He scored 210 runs with an average of 52.50, including one century and fifty in Pakistan’s previous Australia tour.
Babar Azam Is A Class Player – Nathan Lyon
In a conversation with ESPNCricinfo, Nathan Lyon recognized Babar Azam as the No. 1 superstar in the Pakistan side and anticipated a formidable challenge for the Australian team in the upcoming three-match Test series.
“Babar, firstly, has been a pleasure to play against but he’s also been a massive challenge. He’s one of the best batters in the world in my eyes, especially against spin. He’s a class player. But think he’s a class player against all types of bowling,” Lyon told ESPNcricinfo.
“They’ve got some superstars in the side, and if I’m talking superstars he’s the No. 1 in the Pakistan side in my eyes. He played reasonably well out here last time so it’s going to be a big challenge for us for sure,” he added.
The 36-year-old is gearing up to make his return to Test cricket after a calf injury prematurely ended his Ashes campaign earlier this year. The veteran off-spinner played three Sheffield Shield matches in the last month and is set to make his comeback in Perth.
It’s Going To Be A Challange Against Pakistan – Nathan Lyon
Lyon is on the verge of crossing the 500-wicket mark, aiming to become the third Australian bowler and the eighth overall to achieve this milestone. He expressed enthusiasm and excitement to play the match at Optus Stadium in Perth.
“The hunger level for playing Test matches is probably higher than ever, if I’m being honest. I’m proper excited about it. Love playing in Perth at Optus Stadium. It’s going to be a challenge against Pakistan, so it’s going to be an exciting battle,” Lyon further added.
