India’s Star-Studded Team: A Test of Talent and Teamwork

Australia’s premier spinner Nathan Lyon has acknowledged that the Indian cricket squad is not just about individual brilliance but a collective display of talent. Speaking on Wednesday, Lyon noted that while players like Jasprit Bumrah and Virat Kohli often grab headlines, the entire Indian lineup is a force to reckon with. His remarks came ahead of the pink-ball Test in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, following India’s commanding 295-run victory in the series opener in Perth.

"I look at the Indian squad and see a group of superstars. Cricket, however, is a team game, winning requires the entire side to perform well. India boasts extraordinary players like Bumrah and others, but it's not just about the superstars," Lyon said ahead of the pink ball Test here.

"The rest of the Indian squad is also incredibly talented. They're an incredible cricket team. We're not focusing solely on any one player, that's for sure."

"We have nothing but respect for every Indian cricketer who takes the field on Friday. That doesn't mean we're not going to compete. We respect them, but we're determined to play our brand of cricket and compete hard against a quality side. India is one of the best teams in the world," he added. 

Lyon also reflected on India’s depth in their spin department, highlighting the decision to exclude veteran R Ashwin, who has 536 Test wickets, in favour of all-rounder Washington Sundar in Perth. 

"More than surprises me. But the quality of Indian cricketers that they got in that squad, don't they? You've got Ashwin with 530 odd wickets, and then you got Ravindra Jadeja over 300 wickets or whatever it may be."

"So it's pretty remarkable to see the quality of players that are sitting on the bench. But I can't control with who they run out, but it would be a good challenge, no matter who they bring out," Lyon said. 

Reflecting on an aggressive approach by debutant Nitish Reddy, who struck several boundaries off him in Perth, Lyon remained unfazed.

The much-anticipated second Test begins today, promising another thrilling encounter between these two world-class teams.