Australian spin maestro Nathan Lyon, currently 37 years old, has declared his ambition to win a Test series in India before he retires from the sport. Lyon, recognized as Australia's most successful off-spinner with 556 wickets in 138 Tests, has never been part of a Test series-winning team in India. Australia's last Test series victory in India was back in 2004-05.

Lyon has expressed a strong desire to achieve this goal, alongside winning a Test series in England. Speaking to cricket.com.au, Lyon emphasized the importance of focusing on the present while keeping long-term goals in sight. He acknowledged the opportunities ahead, including the upcoming Ashes series at home and the potential for another World Test Championship final.

While Lyon has an impressive record against India, with 130 wickets in 32 Tests, a series win in India has eluded him. In fact, he holds the record for the most wickets taken by a visiting bowler in India, with 56 wickets in 11 Test matches. In his overall Test career, Lyon has taken 24 five-wicket hauls, nine of which have been against India. His best figures in an innings are 8/50, which he achieved against India in Bengaluru in March 2017.

Lyon's career statistics showcase his significance in Test cricket. As of March 2024, he stands as the third-highest wicket-taker for Australia in Test cricket, only behind Shane Warne and Glenn McGrath. He is also seventh overall across all cricketing nations. He made his Test debut in 2011 against Sri Lanka, marking the occasion with a five-wicket haul.

Recently, Lyon relinquished his role as the Australian team's songmaster, a position he held for 12 years. The song, "Underneath the Southern Cross", is a tradition started by Rod Marsh and passed on to Lyon by Michael Hussey. Lyon has led the celebrations in 67 wins from 125 matches. He has passed the role to wicketkeeper-batter Alex Carey, expressing his admiration for Carey's character and leadership qualities. Lyon clarified that stepping down as songmaster doesn't signal his imminent retirement.

Lyon's immediate focus is on the ongoing Test series in the West Indies and the Ashes series at home. Looking ahead, Australia is scheduled to tour India for a five-Test series in early 2027, followed by the Ashes in England. Lyon intends to approach his career "Test by Test" to ensure he remains in peak condition for these major series. He also has his sights set on the next World Test Championship final.