Published By: Sayan Guha

BGT 2024/25: Adelaide Diaries- You Won’t Believe the Numbers This Spinner Racked Up on a Pacer’s Paradise!

The off-spinner who turned Adelaide into his playground, one spell at a time

The Adelaide Oval is no ordinary cricket ground. It wears its rich past like a badge of pride, whispering stories of wars fought beneath its burning sun and pink sky. As the second Test between India and Australia approaches, the Oval prepares to host another chapter in the famous Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Rohit Sharma’s men, bolstered by a 1-0 lead, hope to maintain their domination, but Adelaide has a history of delivering curveballs—or should we say spinning deliveries?

While pacers frequently take the spotlight in Adelaide, Nathan Lyon has etched his name into cricketing legend. Lyon’s feats at a ground known as a pacer’s heaven are a tribute to his creativity. With 56 wickets in ten Tests, the ‘GOAT’ has undoubtedly made Adelaide his home away from home. Let’s go down memory lane and witness his most captivating moments at this historic venue.

When India met the ‘GOAT’ (7/152 – December 2014)

What’s better than witnessing an exciting Test match? Watching Nathan Lyon slice through a batting order like a scalpel through butter. Lyon wreaked havoc on India’s batters in the second Test of 2014.

India, chasing 364 to win, were in command, with Virat Kohli and Murali Vijay batting effectively. Kohli’s 141 and Vijay’s 99 were lessons in perseverance, but Lyon had other ideas. He cunningly tossed the ball, causing it to dip, turn, and spew venom. Lyon’s 7/152 were more than numbers; they were a statement to the cricket world: spinners can rule the roost even in Adelaide. Australia won by 48 runs, and Lyon left with bragging rights.

The Pujara puzzle (6/122 – December 2018)

In 2018, Lyon faced another Indian Test sensation, Cheteshwar Pujara. Pujara, known for his tenacity and long innings, pushed Lyon to his limits. Nonetheless, the off-spinner was persistent. He struck six times during the match, eliminating vital batters and keeping Australia in the game. Despite his spectacular 6/122 in the second innings, Pujara’s 123 and 71 outperformed Lyon’s efforts. India won by 31 runs, but Lyon’s spell ensured the Australians didn’t go down quickly.

A Warner show, a Lyon masterclass (5/69 – November 2019)

While David Warner’s record-breaking 335* grabbed the headlines in Australia’s match against PAK, Lyon quietly performed his best. Lyon created a web, PAK couldn’t escape while defending a massive first-inning total. His 5/69 destroyed a frail batting order, allowing Australia to stroll to an innings and 48-run win. Lyon’s spell was beautiful because it was so precise. He didn’t just attack; he explored, taunted, and outfoxed batters unprepared for his turn.

The five-for that set the tone (5/134 – December 2014)

Lyon had previously made an impact in the first innings of the 2014 Test against India, where he grabbed 7/152. His 5/134 effort showed his ability to chip away at partnerships while keeping Australia in the game. Kohli’s 115 dazzled, but Lyon’s perseverance kept Australia in the driving position. Two five-wicket hauls in one game? That’s more than just skill; Adelaide is bringing out the best in Lyon.

Ashes heat: Rooted out (4/60 – December 2017)

Adelaide has also witnessed Lyon’s heroics during the Ashes. In the second Test of 2017, England’s batters, headed by Joe Root, attempted to stage a comeback. Enter Lyon, who removed Root and three others with 4/60 in the first innings. His fast turn and control made things difficult for England. Australia seized on his brilliance, winning by 120 runs.


For Nathan Lyon, Adelaide Oval has been a stage for his most outstanding performances, particularly against India. His memorable spells, like 7/152 in 2014 and 6/122 in 2018, have often swung tightly contested matches in Australia’s favour. Known as the ‘GOAT,’ Lyon consistently showcases his skill against a strong batting lineup, delivering crucial performances that have left a lasting impact on the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.