Nathan Lyon: Australian cricket great’s new side hustle

Despite his status as Australia’s greatest offspinner, cricket’s not that popular in Nathan Lyon’s household – so he’s turned his hand to something else.

Australian Cricketer Nathan Lyon pictured with this daughters Harper, 9, Milla, 7 and wife Emma.

Who: Australian cricketer, Nathan ‘Nice Garry’ Lyon

Where: Modern duplex with wife Emma and his children Harper, nine and Milla, seven. Favourite thing: Gus is a 20-month old Weimaraner and he’s my best mate; someone I vent to and he won’t judge me. Weirdly, he loves Emma more, while London our Ragdoll cat prefers me.

Inspiration: I’m in charge of the design in the home theatre. That’s it.

Home: is Everything.

Lyon in action for Australia. Picture: AFP

There is possibly nothing more Australian than playing cricket in the backyard, but Nathan Lyon’s daughters Harper and Milla want none of it.

Cricket takes their father away for long stints, and his young daughters are simply impassive to the sport.

Instead, they have taken a keen interest in his side-hustle – co-writing children’s books.

Nathan Lyon relaxes at home with his cat London and dog Gus. Picture: John Appleyard

Bowled Over and In a Spin are the first two books in the Nice Garry series.

“They were never interested in what I did before. Cricket is something that takes dad away, so the books were something they were excited about,” former Adelaide Oval groundsman Lyon said.

The books tackle issues like coping with failure and online bullying, which is a modern day epidemic.

Nathan Lyon book Bowled Over

“When I was growing up, kids were always outside playing or reading a book. So many kids are spending so much time online now. Now was a good opportunity to put out a couple of books and hopefully motivate kids to read more,” Lyon said.

“My girls are even wondering if they can be a character in the next book.”

CRICKET GREAT NATHAN LYON’S FAVOURITE THINGS

When he’s not on the road with his sporting commitments, 34-year-old Lyon, how has taken 438 Test wickets for Australian in 110 Tests at an average of 32.07, relishes spending time at home in Northern Sydney.

One of Lyon’s favourite pieces of memorabilia. Picture: John Appleyard

“I can be away for eight months of the year, so when I am here I just want to enjoy the simple things – like walking the dog or a home-cooked meal.”

The BBQ King

Lyon loves a good old BBQ. Picture: John Appleyard

I am not a great cook but I am pretty good at barbecuing – that’s my role. You’ll find the usual on there: lamb chops, sausages, steak and onions.

Always time for golf

There is no such things as playing ‘just for fun’

This is just a hobby. I find golf fun and challenging … but any professional sportsman who says they are playing just ‘for fun’ is probably lying.

“I am the worst. Of course I want to win.”

Sweet treats

Sweet treats for his girls

“Baking is something I do with my girls.

“Vanilla cupcakes are my go-to and after I bake them the girls run them over to share with the next-door neighbours.”

Firepits can’t be beat

Marshmallows are on high rotation. Picture: John Appleyard

“This is another fun activity I do with my girls.

“We like roasting marshmallows while sitting around the fire pit.”

The Baggy Green!

Wearing the baggy green … a dream come true

“I dreamt of representing Australia as a kid. I was just a kid from country NSW.

“Playing cricket was just something I loved to do, but to represent your country is quite something.”

The kids aren’t fans

Lyon has become a cult figure among cricket fans, but his kids aren’t so keen on it all. Picture: Getty

“This is basically my work.

“I’d like to say the kids enjoy playing cricket, but they are not the biggest fans. It’s what takes me away from them for months.”

Shades

Oakley Razors – wearing these is a must on the field

“These are what I wear on the cricket field.

“I would say they are my most used item. “

Nirvana is in the garden

The former groundsman still has a green thumb. Picture: John Appleyard

“This is my pride and joy.

“I have a greenkeeping background and I am qualified in horticulture so the garden is where I spend a lot of time when I’m home.”

Nathan Lyon’s children’s book series is out now via Harper Collins.