The second Ashes 2023 Test between England and Australia at Lord’s on Wednesday (June 28) marked the 100th consecutive appearance of Aussie spinner Nathan Lyon in the longest format. Lyon became the first-ever bowler and sixth overall player to achieve the remarkable feat.
Apart from Lyon, Alastair Cook (159), Allan Border (153), Mark Waugh (107), Sunil Gavaskar (106), and Brendon McCullum (101) are the other notable names to have played 100 consecutive Tests.
On the eve of this significant milestone, the 35-year-old off-spinner shared his joy while speaking to Cricket Australia regarding the accomplishment. He even playfully mentioned how his numerous appearances in Test cricket had led to a reduction in his hair.
“That’s something I’m really proud of. To be able to tick off 100 consecutive Test matches, that’s a proper stat in my head. That’s a lot of Test cricket, a lot of ups and downs. No wonder I’ve got no hair,” Lyon was quoted saying by ICC.
The experienced Aussie spinner further went on to thank his family and support staff for their constant support. He also acknowledged his personal trainer Tom Carter.
“For any athlete to be successful over a long period of time, you’ve got to have really good people around you, and I’m not talking within the Australian cricket team,” said Lyon.
“I feel like my family has been absolutely amazing, with their support and love and care. Then there is Tom Carter, who is arguably one of my best mates but also my PT who I do a lot of work with behind the scenes,” he added.
As far as Lyon’s performance in the Test format is concerned, the spinner has represented Australia in 121 matches so far and has claimed 495 wickets. Meanwhile, his record in the Ashes series is exceptional as well. The Aussie cricketer’s current tally of wickets in the Ashes reads 109 in 30 matches.