Nathan Lyon says Australia is motivated to right the wrongs of their disastrous Test campaign against Sri Lanka in 2022.
The veteran spin bowler, who took seven wickets in Australia's victory by an innings and 242-runs in the first Test in Galle, says it was important to stamp their authority early in a bid to whitewash the series.
Australia's history in Asia over the past decade hasn't been pretty, with just one Test series win in that time, a 1-0 defeat of Pakistan three years ago.
But after last week's efforts, it's hard to contain the excitement in the visitors' changeroom after moving within one match of a monumental victory over Sri Lanka – a feat they were unable to achieve from a similar position in 2022.
"I was having a beer with Mitch Starc (post-game) and we spoke about that (2022 Test)," Lyon told media on Monday.
Nathan Lyon. AP
"I feel like that's a lot of motivation within this team.
"It's about us on our journey to becoming a great team, to make sure we go 2-0 up.
"We're on that journey, we're not there yet but that's our end goal."
Lyon admits there has been a coming together in the squad since their last visit, with veteran teammates also regaining their confidence with bat and ball.
Nathan Lyon took nine wickets in the first Test. Getty
"We want to be known as a great team, and part of that journey is when we close a window making sure we nail it shut, and we don't let anyone back in," Lyon said.
"This is only me and my thoughts, but we've got some great players within that changeroom.
"You look at Smithy (Steve Smith) bringing up 10,000 runs, you've got Starcy who's around the corner from 100 Test matches.
Nathan Lyon of Australia appeals for the wicket of Angelo Mathews of Sri Lanka. Getty
"And it's not just the guys here, we've got some unbelievable players at home as well whether injured or on paternity leave.
"It's a squad mentality and that's how it should be."
The second and final Test of the series begins on Thursday.
