Nathan Lyon’s Remarkable Journey: From Groundsman to 500 Test Wickets
Nathan Lyon, affectionately known as “Gaz” by his teammates, is not your typical cricket legend. His journey from a humble groundsman to a celebrated cricketer with 500 Test wickets is the stuff of legends. This article, which should have seen the light of day last summer, delves into the incredible transformation of this Australian off-spinner.
The Ashes series of 2019 could have taken a different turn if Lyon’s calf hadn’t betrayed him during the second Test at Lord’s. As fate would have it, he limped off, England mounted a comeback to draw the series 2-2, and Lyon had to postpone his quest for the elusive 500th Test wicket.
Fast forward six months, and Lyon is now standing among the pantheon of cricketing greats. This man, who once toiled as a pitch curator preparing wickets, has etched his name in history as the eighth player to reach the 500-wicket milestone. He achieved this feat with the dismissal of Pakistan’s Faheem Ashraf in Perth.
Lyon’s journey began as an unassuming member of the groundstaff at the Adelaide Oval. Mike Hussey, the former Australian batter, remembers facing a young Lyon in the nets. Even then, there was something special about him, an intensity that hinted at his future success.
It was during England’s 2010-11 Ashes tour of Australia that Lyon’s life took a pivotal turn. Australia needed someone to fill the shoes of Graeme Swann, and Lyon, while managing his ground duties, was recommended for the job. Hussey recalls their one-on-one battles in the nets, where Lyon’s competitive spirit shone through. It was clear that Lyon was no pushover; he was in the fight, as if he were in a Test match.
At that time, Lyon was struggling to secure a spot in South Australia’s second XI. His boss, Damian Hough, recalls Lyon’s relentless dedication, playing four-day second XI matches in Canberra, partying all night, and catching the red-eye flight back to Adelaide. Lyon’s daily routine involved taking charge of preparing the Karen Rolton Oval, one of Adelaide’s smaller first-class grounds. But he would also sneak into the nets, showing his unwavering commitment to improving his craft.
Lyon’s high energy, positivity, and cheekiness made him a natural fit in the team. His transition from groundsman to cricketer was seamless.
However, Lyon’s most remarkable display of determination came during the Ashes series at Lord’s when he hobbled down the pavilion steps to bat with a torn calf. It was a moment that left a lasting impression on the cricketing world. Lyon’s distinctive appearance, complete with sunglasses, a shiny bald head, a towel tucked into his trousers, and his classic bowling action, sets him apart in the modern game. He is a traditional artist in an era of neon lights and flashy aesthetics.
Lyon’s breakthrough came in T20 cricket during the early editions of the Big Bash in 2011. Hough initially resisted Lyon’s involvement, but his talent was undeniable, and Lyon soon found himself playing for South Australia. After just four first-class matches, he earned a call-up for a Test tour of Sri Lanka.
On that tour, Lyon roomed with Trent Copeland, a fellow New South Wales native. They both received heartfelt letters from Justin Langer, the batting coach at the time, welcoming them to the Australian cricket brotherhood. It was a surreal moment for two country kids living their dream.
Lyon, known for his nervous disposition, was particularly jittery before his debut Test. Hussey recalls Lyon’s uneasiness and his early breakfast, consumed hours before the match. Lyon’s Test debut, with a baggy shirt that seemed two sizes too big, became part of Australian cricket folklore. He dismissed the legendary Kumar Sangakkara, ending with figures of 5-35 in the innings. It was a dream come true for Lyon and an unforgettable moment in his career.
However, Lyon’s path to becoming Australia’s most successful finger spinner, second only to the legendary Shane Warne in Test wickets, was far from straightforward. He faced criticism and doubt from those longing for the magic of Warne or the pace onslaught of Mitchell Johnson and company.
Mike Hussey played a crucial role in Lyon’s journey by appointing him as the team’s songmaster, a revered position in Australian cricket. The songmaster leads the team in singing “Under the Southern Cross,” a tradition passed down through generations of players. Hussey saw in Lyon a respect for the game’s history, hard work, and humility that made him the perfect choice for the role.
Being a nervous cricketer, Lyon initially faced challenges in leading the team song. Some of his early attempts didn’t go down well with his teammates. However, with time, he honed his skills and became more confident in the role.
As Australia celebrates its victory over Pakistan, Lyon will lead the team in song once again, this time with 500 Test wickets to his name. His transformation from a groundsman to a cricketing superhero has left a profound mark on Australian cricket. In fact, legendary commentator Kerry O’Keeffe once likened him to a Hollywood superhero, a transformation from Mr. Bean to Thor, as Lyon stands at the top of his mark. He truly is Australia’s off-spinning superhero, and his journey is an inspiration to all aspiring cricketers.
