Lyon joins the 500 club as Australia record massive victory over Pakistan

Monday, 18 December 2023 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Nathan Lyon went past 500 Test wickets as Australia rolled over Pakistan, securing a 360-run win in the first Test in Perth. Lyon, already third on the list of highest wicket-

takers for Australia in Tests, has now become the eighth bowler overall to go past 500 Test wickets.

The 36-year-old achieved the feat when he trapped Faheem Ashraf in front to scalp Pakistan’s seventh wicket. He then dismissed Aamer Jamal three balls later to claim his 501st wicket.

Pakistan, already struggling with an imposing target of 450, did not survive long after that and were dismissed for 89, giving Australia a 360-run win.

This is also Australia’s second-biggest win margin by runs against Pakistan in Test cricket.

Mitchell Marsh was adjudged the Player of the Match for his knocks of 90 and 63* in the match. He also picked up the crucial wicket of Babar Azam in the first innings.

This win means that Pakistan have lost their perfect record on the World Test Championship 2025 table and have dropped down to No.2. Meanwhile, Australia are at No.5 with a PCT of 41.67.

The second Test between the two sides will begin on 26 December at the MCG.