Australia’s star off-spinner Nathan Lyon has expressed surprise at India’s decision to leave out their premier spinners, Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Test series. Lyon, who is widely regarded as one of the best Test spinners alongside Ashwin, acknowledged the strength of India’s squad but admitted it was unexpected to see such high-caliber players on the bench.
Astonishment Over Ashwin and Jadeja’s Exclusion
Lyon shared his thoughts during a media interaction ahead of the second Test in Adelaide. “I am more than surprised,” Lyon said, referring to India’s selection choices. “Ashwin has over 530 wickets, and Jadeja has more than 300. It’s remarkable to see such quality players on the sidelines, but it speaks volumes about the depth of Indian cricket.”
Ashwin, who has taken 536 Test wickets, is the highest wicket-taker among active cricketers, with Lyon following closely at 532. Despite their remarkable records, Ashwin and Jadeja were benched for Washington Sundar in the first Test in Perth and are unlikely to feature in Adelaide. Lyon, however, acknowledged that India’s decisions are based on strategic considerations.
India’s Depth and Tactical Approach
India’s decision to stick with Sundar highlights the team’s trust in his all-round abilities. Sundar contributed with the ball in Perth and impressed with the bat in a warm-up match, leaving the team management hesitant to make changes to the playing XI. Lyon recognized the logic behind India’s selection, even though it limits the opportunities for Ashwin and Jadeja.
Lyon on India’s Strengths and Key Players
While much of the pre-series spotlight was on Virat Kohli, Lyon believes India’s strength lies in the collective abilities of their team. “India has multiple superstars—Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah are phenomenal, but the rest of the squad is equally capable. They are a strong team and tough competitors,” Lyon remarked.
Lyon emphasized Australia’s strategy of focusing on their brand of cricket while respecting the opposition. “We are not targeting just one or two players. Our goal is to play competitive cricket against the entire Indian side,” he added.
The Lyon vs. Pant Showdown
One of the eagerly anticipated battles is between Lyon and India’s flamboyant wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant. Although the matchup didn’t materialize in Perth, Lyon is prepared for the challenge, recalling similar contests in the 2021 series.
“I’m not afraid to get hit for boundaries. Playing against the best in the world is always exciting. If I see an opportunity to take a wicket, I’m willing to take that risk,” Lyon explained.
Conclusion: A Clash of Strategies in Adelaide
As India and Australia gear up for the second Test, the spotlight remains on India’s bold selection calls and the intriguing individual rivalries on the field. With Australia boasting an unbeaten day-night Test record in Adelaide, and India aiming to maintain their series lead, fans can expect a fiercely competitive encounter.
