Lyon on cusp of 100 Test wickets ahead of Boxing Day Test

Sydney: Australian spinner Nathan Lyon is within reach of his 100th Test wicket at the MCG this week, which is one reason why his work will be watched with more interest than usual, according to reports.

According to News.com.au, another is that Graeme Swann`s sudden retirement has provided cause to reflect on the value of a really good offie, even if most who ply that trade never attain true stardom, especially in Australia. Swann was an authentic match-winner, with England triumphing in 30 of his 60 Tests, in which he claimed 150 of his 255 wickets, the report said. Meanwhile, Australian bowling coach Craig McDermott said that Lyon had done an unbelievable job for his side, taking crucial wickets at crucial times. This has taken Lyon`s career figures to 95 wickets at 33.04 in 28 Tests since he arrived in stunning fashion with 5-34 on debut in Sri Lanka two years ago, the report added.