Australia ready for 'big challenge' against India: Lyon

Pune [India], Feb. 21 (ANI): Australian off-spinner Nathan Lyon has insisted that his team are ready for the "big challenge" which they would face in the four-match Test series against India beginning Thursday at the Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) Stadium. "We are very confident in our change room that we can come out here and compete hard with India. We know it's going to be hard work. We know it is a challenge and India is number one in the world for a reason and we are playing in their backyard," Lyon said while addressing the media on Tuesday. "We don't expect to come here and have green fast wickets for these two big fellows to fall down but it is a big challenge for us and we are looking forward to it," he added. Maintaining that the pre-tour preparation has been really good, the off-spinner said, "There are going to be different challenges that lie ahead in this tour for us. We have a got a really good squad together. We have been training very well." Australia selectors have selected four spinners to pose a challenge to the Indian batting line-up, which has the likes of Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane. But Lyon believes that the visitors would also bank upon the pacers, who would have to use the reverse swing available on the Indian wickets. "There's gone be a turn, reverse swing. Big quicks will play a role. So, it's a good challenge for the whole team. As a bowling unit, with the big quicks, our job is to take 20 wickets. If you do take 20 wickets, you are doing the right thing and will win more games for the team," Lyon said. When asked if there would be extra pressure on him as he is the senior most bowler in the line-up, Lyon said he is enjoying the extra responsibility. "It doesn't add any extra pressure. As I keep saying, as a bowling unit, our job is to take 20 wickets and bowl well together in a partnership and build pressure. I am looking at it as a good chance to pass some knowledge to young spinners who haven't toured here before," he said. India, who are on an unbeaten 19-match winning streak, will aim to continue their momentum and maintain top spot in rankings when they take on Australia. Australia, on the other hand, are touring India for a full Test series for the first time since they were whitewashed 0-4 by the hosts in the 2012-13 season. The Aussies later defeated India 2-0 in a four-Test rubber played Down Under in the 2014-15 season. Australia have never won a Test match in India since 2004 and their last series win in Asia came against Sri Lanka in 2011. (ANI)