Ravichandran Ashwin might be competing with Nathan Lyon as the only two off-spinners dominating Test cricket, but the Indian spin legend has heaped praise on his Australian rival. Nathan Lyon entered the history books during AUS vs PAK 1st Test, becoming only the second off-spinner after Muttiah Muralitharan to bag 500 Test wickets and third Australian to achieve the feat.
Ashwin congratulated Nathan Lyon on the achievement with two goat emojis.
Most Test Wickets:
- 800: Muttiah Muralitharan
- 708: Shane Warne
- 690: James Anderson
- 619: Anil Kumble
- 604: Stuart Broad
- 563: Glenn McGrath
- 519: Courtney Walsh
- 501: Nathan Lyon
Ashwin vs Nathan Lyon
However, despite mutual admiration, both have been locked in a race. Ashwin is 11 wickets away from becoming second Indian spinner with 500 Test wickets.
However, for the moment, Lyon has edged him to take the lead. Ashwin has 489 Test wickets while Lyon has 501.
And with IND vs ENG Test series in late January, Ashwin will be aiming to surpass Lyon in the five-match Test series.
But the mutual respect the two legends share despite fierce on-field competition has been a great side of cricket to watch for fans. Recently, Lyon said that he would want to catch up with Ashwin after his career is done.
Nathan Lyon called Ashwin one of his biggest coaches in an interview.
“You look at Ashwin, he’s a world-class bowler and somebody I’ve watched closely from the start of his career. We’ve gone head-to-head many times in different conditions around the world. I’ve definitely learned from him,” Lyon said.
To that, Ashwin responded, saying he could be up for a home and away catch up too.
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