Australia off-spinner Nathan Lyon has etched his name even deeper into cricketing history, overtaking legendary fast bowler Glenn McGrath to become the sixth-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket. The milestone came in fitting fashion during the third Ashes Test in Adelaide, a ground that holds special significance in Lyon’s remarkable journey.
At 38, Lyon required just two wickets to surpass McGrath’s long-standing tally of 563 Test scalps. He achieved the feat inside his very first over of the match, delivering a masterclass in off-spin bowling that immediately put England under pressure.
With his third ball, Lyon had Ollie Pope caught at mid-wicket, drawing level with McGrath. Just three deliveries later, he produced a classic off-spinner to bowl Ben Duckett, claiming his 564th wicket and moving clear in the all-time standings.
Climbing the All-Time Greats List
Lyon now sits behind only five bowlers in Test history and is second among Australians, trailing only the late Shane Warne, who finished his career with 708 wickets. He is also the highest-ranked active Test bowler and the fourth-most successful spinner of all time.
Only Sri Lanka’s Muttiah Muralitharan (800 wickets), Warne, and India great Anil Kumble (619) sit above Lyon among spinners. Retired England icons Sir James Anderson and Stuart Broad are the only pace bowlers ahead of him in the overall rankings.
Former teammate McGrath was full of praise for Lyon’s achievement.
“What a bowler. Nathan Lyon deserves to get that,” McGrath said on BBC Test Match Special.
“First over, and that ball to Duckett was an absolute gem. He’s been brilliant for Australia and will go down as one of the greatest spin bowlers the country has produced.”
McGrath described Lyon as Australia’s greatest-ever off-spinner, highlighting his longevity, tactical intelligence, and consistent impact across conditions.
A Special Moment at a Special Ground
The achievement carried extra meaning given Lyon’s connection to Adelaide Oval. Before becoming a Test regular, Lyon worked as a groundsman at the venue, and it was also the site of his Test debut in 2010 — coincidentally against England.
Ahead of the match, Lyon admitted the occasion felt like something out of a storybook.
“It would be like a little fairytale,” he said.
“My first ever Test was here, and for me to potentially overtake Glenn McGrath at this ground would be pretty incredible.”
In recognition of his contribution, the South Australia Cricket Association unveiled a commemorative plaque in his honour on the venue’s Avenue of Honour. Lyon has now taken 65 Test wickets at Adelaide Oval, more than any other bowler in history.
Responding After Selection Setbacks
Lyon’s milestone came after a challenging period in the series. He was omitted from the day-night Test in Brisbane and bowled just two overs in the series opener in Perth, admitting he felt “absolutely filthy” about being left out.
His response in Adelaide was emphatic, underlining his enduring value in an era where teams often favour pace-heavy attacks. England, notably, have yet to select a specialist spinner in the series, instead relying on all-rounder Will Jacks to provide part-time off-spin.
Lyon Champions the Role of Spin in Test Cricket
Lyon used the occasion to reiterate the importance of spin bowling in the longest format.
“Variation is incredibly important in Test cricket,” he said.
“It’s a five-day game, pitches wear, and that’s where spinners can really produce their craft.”
He also highlighted the entertainment value of spin, pointing to subcontinent conditions and the excitement generated when the ball starts turning.
“As soon as the ball spins, there are more eyes on TVs,” Lyon added.
“Spin matters at every level — junior cricket, first-class cricket, white ball, red ball — it doesn’t matter the format.”
Legacy of an Australian Great
Once an unheralded late bloomer, Nathan Lyon’s rise from groundsman to one of the most prolific wicket-takers in Test history is a testament to resilience, skill, and dedication. His latest milestone not only cements his place among cricket’s elite but also reinforces the enduring relevance of spin bowling in modern Test cricket.
As the Ashes series continues, Lyon’s experience and mastery remain central to Australia’s hopes — and his story continues to grow richer with every spell.
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