The offie preys on bounce

Dharamsala, March 26: Australia off-spinner Nathan Lyon said he made use of his biggest weapon — bounce — as he took four final-session wickets to halt India’s progress in the fourth and final Test on Sunday.

After the first three tests were played on low and slow tracks at Pune, Bengaluru and Ranchi, the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association produced a wicket which offered significant bounce and turn to keep both the slow and fast bowlers happy.

In reply to Australia’s first innings total of 300, India looked steady on 157-2 when Lyon intervened to change the complexion of the contest.

“After bowling a couple of overs on it before lunch, I sat down and thought about what it is similar to and it was closer to a home wicket,” Lyon said after claiming 4-67.

“...bounce is my biggest weapon where I am getting guys caught at bat-pad and slips.

“I went back to knowing how I bowl, which is probably the best way I should bowl — just backing my skill and enjoying the challenge of playing the best side in the world in their home conditions.”

Lyon has been rather subdued in the series but joins spin partner Steve O’Keefe and Indian Ravichandran Ashwin as the joint secondhighest wicket-taker (18), behind local favourite Ravindra Jadeja (22).

Lyon said he did not care how many wickets he got as long as Australia claimed a decisive victory.