Babar Azam is one of the best batters in the world in my eyes, especially against spin: Nathan Lyon

Nathon Lyon. (Photo Source: BCCI)

Nathan Lyon’s eagerness for Test cricket has never been more pronounced as he prepares for a comeback following the calf injury that prematurely ended his Ashes campaign earlier this year. Anticipating his return against Pakistan, Lyon is poised to play a pivotal role in Australia’s bowling attack.

Optus Stadium in Perth, the venue for the inaugural Test, has proven to be a successful ground for Lyon, where he has claimed 22 wickets in three matches. Despite his past successes, Lyon acknowledges the formidable challenge posed by Pakistan, particularly their star batter, Babar Azam.

Babar, who recently relinquished the captaincy, boasts an impressive average of 44.38 in ten Tests against Australia. Lyon, recognizing Babar’s prowess, described him as one of the world’s premier batters, especially against spin. Lyon views him as the top player in the Pakistan lineup and acknowledges the significant challenge he presents.

“Babar, firstly, has been a pleasure to play against but he’s also been a massive challenge,” Lyon told ESPNcricinfo. “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.

“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.”

Having endured an injury setback during the Ashes, Lyon, on the cusp of reaching 500 Test wickets, expresses heightened enthusiasm for the upcoming matches. He relishes the prospect of playing at Optus Stadium in Perth and is eager for the match against Pakistan.

“The hunger level for playing Test matches is probably higher than ever if I’m being honest,” he said. “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’s recent performances in the Sheffield Shield, where he took four wickets in three outings for New South Wales, coupled with a comprehensive rehabilitation process, have left him content and confident. He acknowledges the valuable support from those around him, highlighting the meticulous preparation that has gone into his return.

“My rehab has been exceptional,” he said. “I’ve had a lot of good people in my corner helping me out, making sure I was ticking every box and making sure I was doing everything required. If I wasn’t coming off cricket I’d been questioning it, but three Shield games, a one-day game a grade game, and a lot of training, [leaves me] feeling really happy with way things are.”