Watch: Nathan Lyon posted a video congratulating R Ashwin moments after the latter became the latest entrant in the 500-Test wicket club.
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Ashwin picked up his 500th Test wicket in his 98th Test, achieving the feat during day two of the India-England Test in Rajkot. England opener Zak Crawley attempted to sweep a delivery from the off-spinner but it ended in a top edge to Rajat Patidar, allowing Ashwin to reach the coveted milestone.
Australia off-spinner Lyon was quick to congratulate his Indian counterpart for the landmark in a video that he uploaded on his social media account on X (formerly Twitter).
“Hey Ash, I just want to say a massive congratulations on taking 500 Test match wickets. It’s been an incredible journey to watch. I’ve got nothing but respect for the way you’ve gone about it and your skill level. It’s been amazing to be competing against you but also learn a few. So, mate congratulations and plenty more to come.”
Lyon and Ashwin, arguably the two best off-spinners in the modern era, have often been pitted against each other. Both players made their Test debuts in 2011 and have gone on to take 500 wickets each since then. Lyon recently got to the milestone in the first Test against Pakistan in December 2023 when he dismissed Faheem Ashraf. After Lyon, Ashwin is the next bowler to get to the magical 500.
In 127 Tests, Lyon has 517 wickets at an average of 30.73 while Ashwin averages 23.9.
Ashwin has 24 five-wicket hauls in 184 innings and became only the second Indian bowler to pick up 500 Test scalps.
Watch Nathan Lyon congratulating Ashwin:
Congratulation to @ashwinravi99 on achieving the 500 Test wicket milestone. Many more to come. 👏👏👏 pic.twitter.com/XANzv1Lcn7
— Nathan Lyon (@NathLyon421) February 16, 2024
