AUS vs IND 2024-25: Nathan Lyon names three Indian batters as challenging

Australian spin wizard, Nathan Lyon recently opened up on the formidable Indian batting line-up ahead of the upcoming five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test series between India and Australia, scheduled for November this year.

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy has been a fiercely contested series in recent years, with India emerging victorious in the last two editions on Australian soil in 2019 and 2021. As the hosts prepare to defend their home turf, the off-spinner's observations carry significant weight.

Lyon pinpointed three Indian batters as the primary threats to Australia's chances in the series. The 36-year-old also emphasized that India's batting depth goes much beyond these three stars.

“Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Rishabh Pant are probably going to be the three really big ones. But then you've still got Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Jadeja, and who else will come out—another five, I'm not sure,” Lyon told Star Sports.

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The veteran spinner, who has claimed 121 wickets in 27 Tests against India, including nine five-wicket hauls, stressed the importance of sustained pressure from the Australian bowling unit.

Hopefully, we can challenge India's defence: Lyon

Lyon also acknowledged the strength of India's bowling attack, noting that facing Indian bowlers would be equally challenging for the Australian batters.

“But it's a pretty amazing line-up they've got, so it's going to be a massive challenge. As I said, if we, as a bowling group, are good enough for long periods, hopefully, we can challenge their defence,” he added.