Nathan Lyon Comments on Intense Fourth Test Between India and England

Lyon Reflects on the Manchester Test Drama

Melbourne [Australia], July 29: Nathan Lyon, Australia's experienced off-spinner, shared his thoughts on the thrilling events that transpired during the fourth Test between India and England in Manchester last week.

As Day 5 reached its climax, tensions escalated when India, led by Ravindra Jadeja's unbeaten 107 and Washington Sundar's 101, fought valiantly to keep the series alive, maintaining a 1-2 scoreline.

With a draw on the horizon, England's captain Ben Stokes approached the Indian duo to shake hands and conclude the match. However, with Jadeja at 89 and Sundar at 80, they declined the offer. Shortly after, England bowled again, and Jadeja hit a six off Harry Brook, securing his fifth Test century.

Stokes was heard on the stump mic asking, “Jaddu, do you want to get a Test 100 against Brook & Duckett?” to which Jadeja replied, “What do you want me to do, just walk off?” Zak Crawley, nearby, suggested, “You can, just shake your hand.”

Lyon had a straightforward message for England, stating, as reported by a media outlet, “Get them out. Don’t let them get a hundred.”

The ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy has proven to be a paradise for batsmen. Several Australian players are closely observing the matches, especially with the Ashes series approaching in four months.

Lyon, analyzing the Tests played in England, advocated for more competitive pitches for the Ashes, subtly criticizing the one used in the recent Manchester Test.

“It’s going to be challenging for both their and our batters. That’s how cricket should be; fans want to see competition between bat and ball. What happened in Manchester last week isn’t what they want to watch,” Lyon remarked.

The fourth Test concluded in a draw, thanks to the outstanding performances by Jadeja (108*) and Sundar (101*). Lyon's critique extended beyond the pitch conditions to the evolution of 'Bazball.'

The term 'Bazball' has gained traction since Brendon McCullum became England's head coach in 2022, describing their aggressive style of play. Lyon, who has faced this approach, believes it has shifted from being 'reckless' to focusing on effective strategies for winning matches.

“Bazball has evolved; they’re now genuinely discussing how to win games without being overly reckless. The conditions here have always fostered a great contest between bat and ball, and that’s how Australia has produced such pitches,” he concluded.