'It feels like you've got the nation against you' - Nathan Lyon admires India's love for Virat Kohli

image-le5mtwlxNathan Lyon speaks on the Virat Kohli challenge (Source: Twitter)

Australia spinner Nathan Lyon discussed the Virat Kohli challenge, stating that the India great has always given him a fierce competition.

As Lyon holds a superior head-to-head record against Kohli, dismissing him joint-highest number of times (7) in Test cricket along with James Anderson, the offie cited that he has often been loathed for the same by the batter's fanatics.

Drawing parallels between Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar, Lyon shared how dismissing the India legends made him experience a steaming bowl of hate by the public.


Here's what Lyon said to Star Sports:

"Coming up against Virat Kohli, it feels like you've got the nation against you. If you've got a little bit of success and get Virat out or create a chance, you become the most hated cricketer in world cricket quite quickly. 

"I've had a little bit of experience on that front bowling to Sachin Tendulkar a number of years ago now.

"It's been a privilege to play against him (Kohli). I've always said that I want to compete against the best in the world and Virat probably has provided me with the best challenge."

While Lyon did not have a great start on India tour as he took just one wicket in the first Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, his battle versus Kohli will again take centre stage when India and Australia face-off at Delhi on February 17.