Respect, Rivalry, and Records: Lyon vs Maharaj at Lord’s

June 8, 2025: As the cricketing world gears up for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s on June 11, a heartwarming moment has emerged between two modern-day spin greats — Nathan Lyon of Australia and Keshav Maharaj of South Africa.

In a recent ICC video on Instagram, South African spinner Keshav Maharaj heaped praise on Lyon, crediting the Aussie veteran for inspiring a new generation of finger spinners around the world.

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“I’ve always been a massive fan of Nathan Lyon,” Maharaj said. “When he got his 400th Test wicket, I DM’d him to say thank you for leading the way for finger spinners. He’s shown that it’s not just leg-spinners who can dominate. What he’s done for Australian cricket is beyond words.”

Lyon, in his trademark humble manner, returned the compliments:
“Those are very kind words. I’ve had great chats with Keshav, and the respect is mutual. The way he shapes the ball and goes about his craft is incredible.”

The two veteran tweakers — both central to their respective sides — are expected to play key roles in the high-stakes final. Australia is aiming to defend their WTC crown, while South Africa is chasing its first-ever ICC world title in men’s cricket.

Lyon, Australia’s third-highest wicket-taker in Test history, boasts 553 wickets in 136 matches, while Maharaj is on the brink of history himself. With 198 wickets in 57 Tests, he is just two shy of becoming the first South African spinner to reach 200 Test wickets, and six away from 300 international scalps.

Despite not having a standout record in ICC tournament knockouts (just 3 wickets in 4 matches), Maharaj’s tight bowling and economy rate have kept him relevant and reliable under pressure. Lyon acknowledged this, calling Maharaj a “massive threat” and “a street-smart cricketer who doesn’t get spoken about enough.”

“Obviously, he’ll be a vital player in the final,” Maharaj added of Lyon, “but hopefully we come out on top.”

This mutual admiration between rivals ahead of a title clash is a refreshing reminder of the camaraderie and respect that defines the gentleman’s game.