Australia's big four bowlers pass 600-wicket milestone together

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 16 Oct, 18:02 · Archive

Australia's four-man bowling attack of Hazlewood, Starc, Cummins and Lyon has become the first group to surpass 600 wickets in Tests played together.

Australia's four-man bowling attack of Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon has become the first group to surpass 600 Test wickets played together. The milestone was reached during last week's 214-run victory over South Africa in Durban.

This summer will mark the tenth consecutive year the quartet have served as Australia's first-choice bowling attack, since Cummins' return for the 2017-18 Ashes series. On current form, none appear ready to retire, with winning in South Africa, India and England a stated goal for the Australian team.

Hazlewood said the bowlers may be experiencing a 'golden period' comparable to batters late in their careers, where 'everything's a bonus from here on in'. Nathan Lyon has pledged to give up alcohol to 'squeeze as much of the lemon as possible', whilst captain Cummins admitted the quartet are relishing their time together, knowing it will not last for ever. Australia's coach Andrew McDonald has compared the group to seasoned club cricketers who continue playing because of friendship in the changeroom.

How it is being reported

• Hazlewood feeling free as bowlers enter golden ageAustralia's 'big four' bowlers have entered the most rarefied of air as they approach a 10th year together, with the benefit of age playing into their hands.The West Australian · 16 Oct, 17:36
• Hazlewood feeling free as bowlers enter golden ageAustralia's 'big four' bowlers have entered the most rarefied of air as they approach a 10th year together, with the benefit of age playing into their hands.Perth Now · 16 Oct, 17:36

In this story: Josh Hazlewood · Mitchell Starc · Pat Cummins · Nathan Lyon · Australia · South Africa

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