Nathan Lyon Surpasses Glenn McGrath to Create New Record in Test Cricket

The rivalry between England and Australia continues to be the heartbeat and most-awaited Test series for the fans of Test cricket and the ongoing Ashes 2025-26 has once again justified it. With Australia having secured an early dominance, the Ashes 2025-26 has unfolded with thrilling contests and moments that reminded fans why this is among the greatest rivalries in cricket.
This edition of the Ashes started with surprising milestones and unexpected turns, from dominating bowling spells to crucial batting partnerships, and each day of the Test has produced something new. Continuing on the track of records, another player has created history and etched his name in the book of records. In the ongoing AUS vs ENG 3rd Ashes Test, Nathan Lyon produced a decisive spell and helped cross a legendary benchmark.

Nathan Lyon Record: Surpasses Glenn McGrath in Test Cricket

Off-spinner Nathan Lyon entered the AUS vs ENG 3rd Test with 562 wickets, being one of the most established, reliable match winners in red-ball cricket. During the Adelaide Test, Lyon struck twice and reached a historic mark with his experience and control. England were at 37 without any loss when Lyon was introduced into the attack during the Adelaide attack.

He first dismissed Ollie Pope, who pushed at a turning delivery but ended up with a catch at midwicket. That wicket brought Lyon level with Glenn McGrath’s tally of 563, and then just four balls later, Lyon drifted one into Ben Duckett, who misread the line, and the ball turned enough to rattle the off-stump. With this dismissal, Nathan Lyon's wicket tally moved to 564 Test wickets, officially taking the lead and overtaking McGrath, who has 563 Test wickets under his belt.
The moment helped him to reach a new milestone in Tests. Nathan Lyon Test record is not surprising as he is known as the GOAT of cricket. He entered the series with just two wickets short of breaking McGrath's Test wickets record. While Glenn McGrath Test record came in 124 Tests, Lyon has achieved the feat in his 141st appearance. This Nathan Lyon record has now placed him second among the Australian bowlers and sixth overall in Test cricket history.

Nathan Lyon in Ashes 2025-26

Lyon’s impact in the series has gone beyond individual records. After being left out earlier in the tour, his return in the AUS vs ENG 3rd Ashes Test proved decisive. He came and helped Australia take the lead, dismissing England’s key batters without giving much on economy. By lunch on day two, England had slipped to 59 for three.

As of now, for the Ashes 2025-26, Australia are 2-0 ahead, and the third match is the decisive one in determining the winner. For a long time, he has been a key performer for Australia in Test cricket. As the series progresses, Lyon will have a key role to play with the ball due to his massive amount of experience.