Nathan Lyon‘s stellar performance with the ball propelled Australia to a convincing 172-run victory over New Zealand in the first Test in Wellington. Lyon’s spin wizardry dismantled the New Zealand batting lineup, as he claimed six wickets in the second innings, finishing with match figures of 10-108.
New Zealand, needing 258 more runs on the fourth morning to secure an unlikely win, crumbled under Lyon’s pressure. The collapse began with the dismissal of Rachin Ravindra for 59, caught by Cameron Green at point. Lyon continued to wreak havoc, dismissing Tom Blundell and Glenn Phillips in quick succession.
Despite a brief resistance from Scott Kuggeleijn, who scored 26 off 28 balls, New Zealand’s lower order failed to cope with Lyon’s spin. Tim Southee and Daryl Mitchell were Lyon’s final victims, as New Zealand were bowled out for 196.
Nathon Lyon matches Shane Warne
Nathan Lyon holds the remarkable record of taking a five-wicket haul in Test cricket in nine different countries. This feat puts him in an elite club alongside Muthiah Muralidaran and Shane Warne as the only players to achieve this milestone. Lyon’s ability to adapt to various conditions around the world underscores his skill and consistency as one of the premier spin bowlers in the history of the game.
Earlier in the match, Green’s heroic innings of 174 not out rescued Australia from a precarious position of 89-4 in the first innings, guiding them to a total of 383. Green was named the man of the match for his outstanding performance with the bat.
The win gives Australia a 1-0 lead in the two-match series, with the second Test set to begin in Christchurch. Lyon’s exceptional bowling display reaffirmed his status as one of the premier spin bowlers in world cricket, and he will be a key player for Australia as they look to clinch the series against New Zealand.
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