'Nothing but respect' - Nathan Lyon welcomes R Ashwin to 500-wicket club

In a heartwarming gesture, Australian great off-spinner Nathan Lyon extended a warm welcome to  R Ashwin incoveted 500-wicket club. Lyon, taking to his social media account, shared a video applauding the Indian maestro for achieving this remarkable milestone.

Ashwin reached this monumental feat during India's third Test clash against England at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot. Reflecting on the achievement, Lyon expressed deep respect for Ashwin, praising his 13-year contribution as a linchpin in the Indian bowling lineup. He congratulated Ashwin on reaching 500 Test wickets, commending his incredible journey and expressing admiration for the way he has approached the achievement

“Hi Ash, just wanted to say, massive congratulations for taking 500 Test match wickets. It’s been an incredible journey to watch. I have got nothing but respect for the way you have gone about it. It’s been amazing to be competing against you, but also learn from you. Congratulations and plenty more to come,” Lyon said in his video posted on 'X'. 

The off-spinner from India now joins an elite group of legendary bowlers, a club that includes luminaries like Muttiah Muralitharan, Shane Warne, James Anderson, Anil Kumble, Stuart Broad, Glenn McGrath, Courtney Walsh, Lyon himself.

Also Read: Ravichandran Ashwin becomes fastest Indian bowler to take 500 Test wickets 

Ashwin the fastest Indian to 500 wickets

Aside from the milestone wicket, Ashwin has etched his name in history as only the third cricketer, after Stuart Broad and Shane Warne, to achieve the double of 3000-plus runs and 500-plus wickets in Test cricket. Notably, he also holds the record for the fastest Indian to 500 wickets, surpassing Anil Kumble's record of 18 years.

Ashwin's exceptional record is further embellished by his five Test centuries, underscoring his invaluable contributions to the Indian team over the years. As the cricketing world celebrates Ashwin's achievement, Lyon's message exemplifies the camaraderie and mutual respect that defines the spirit of the game.