Nathan Lyon Makes History in Ashes Test with Record-Breaking Wickets
In a thrilling display during the Ashes series, Nathan Lyon made history by becoming Australia's second-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket. His impressive performance included a key wicket that surpassed Glenn McGrath's record. The match saw dramatic shifts in momentum, with England struggling under pressure. Lyon's return to the team proved pivotal, showcasing his importance in the format. As temperatures soared in Adelaide, the day was marked by Lyon's historic achievement and McGrath's humorous reaction, captivating cricket fans worldwide.
| Dec 18, 2025, 21:07 IST
Nathan Lyon's Historic Achievement in Adelaide
During the second day of the third Test in the Ashes series held in Adelaide, Nathan Lyon achieved a remarkable feat that not only influenced the match but also altered the course of cricket history. Lyon's clean bowled dismissal of Ben Duckett made him the second-highest wicket-taker for Australia in Test cricket.
With this wicket, Lyon surpassed Glenn McGrath's tally of 563 wickets, bringing his own total to 564 Test wickets. Following this milestone, the cameras captured McGrath in the commentary box, humorously feigning annoyance and pretending to get up from his seat, a light-hearted moment that quickly went viral on social media.
It is noteworthy that Lyon was left out of the playing XI in the second Test, which Australia won, taking a 2-0 lead in the series. However, his return in the third Test was impactful, reaffirming his significance in red-ball cricket.
As Lyon took the ball on the second morning, the match's momentum shifted. England had scored 37 runs without losing a wicket when captain Pat Cummins claimed his first wicket of the series by dismissing Zak Crawley. Shortly after, England lost three wickets within just 15 balls.
Lyon first dismissed Ollie Pope to equal McGrath's record, and just four balls later, he deceived Ben Duckett, uprooting his off stump. This achievement places him second on Australia's all-time list, following Shane Warne, who has 708 wickets.
Earlier, Australia began the day at 326 for eight but was bowled out for 371 runs. England's Jofra Archer took five wickets, including the crucial one of Mitchell Starc, who contributed a brisk 54 runs in an attempt to stabilize the lower order.
By lunch, England's score stood at 59 for three, and the team appeared to be under pressure. Joe Root received a reprieve early on due to a close catch decision, contrasting with a controversial review involving Alex Carey from the previous day.
With temperatures in Adelaide expected to reach 40 degrees, England will need to bat patiently and for an extended period to stay competitive in the series. The narrative of the second day has been dominated by Nathan Lyon's historic bowling performance and Glenn McGrath's spirited reaction.