Australian Test spinner, Nathan Lyon, has expressed his admiration for Pakistan’s batting sensation, Babar Azam, labeling him as one of the best batters in the world.

In a recent interview with ESPNcricinfo, Lyon, who has faced off against Babar on multiple occasions, commended the former skipper for being a pleasure to play against and acknowledging the massive challenge he poses to bowlers. 

“Babar, firstly, has been a pleasure to play against but he’s also been a massive challenge,” Lyon said. 

“He’s one of the best batters in the world in my eyes, especially against spin. He’s a class player. But think he’s a class player against all types of bowling,” he added.

The 36-year-old emphasized the upcoming challenge for the Australian team as they prepare to face the Men in Green. 

“They’ve got some superstars in the side, and if I’m talking superstars he’s the No. 1 in the Pakistan side in my eyes. He played reasonably well out here last time so it’s going to be a big challenge for us for sure,” he said.

Reflecting on his own excitement for the upcoming Test matches, Lyon emphasized his eagerness to play at Optus Stadium in Perth.

“The hunger level for playing Test matches is probably higher than ever if I’m being honest,” he said. 

“I’m proper excited about it. Love playing in Perth at Optus Stadium. It’s going to be a challenge against Pakistan, so it’s going to be an exciting battle,” he concluded.