Jackson Bird joked that Nathan Lyon ruined things for everyone when the off-spinner claimed a timely wicket on day one of the Boxing Day Test between Australia and Pakistan.
An unusual world-record attempt made headlines in the build-up to the match, with thousands of fans encouraged to yell 'Nice, Garry' - a phrase often uttered by Australia wicketkeeper Matthew Wade when Lyon is bowling - after the 29-year-old's third delivery.
Lyon, whose nickname is a reference to former AFL star Garry Lyon, hijacked the proposed chant, however, by having Sami Aslam caught at slip from his third ball to prompt raucous cheering at the MCG.
"Gaz has sort of ruined that for everyone, really, but it was nice to see him get a wicket. It was actually pretty funny," said a smiling Bird at the end of a truncated opening day that saw Pakistan reach 142-4 before rain set in.
"It was pretty loud - everyone was on their feet as he [Lyon] was running in and then it was a beautiful delivery. It's good to see the crowd getting behind Gazza."
Azhar Ali held firm for Pakistan with 66 not out and Bird hopes Australia can enhance their position by removing the opener in Tuesday's morning session.
"I suppose the first hour is going to be crucial," added the seamer, who was responsible for two breakthroughs on the opening day.
"If we can get one or two quick wickets, get Azhar Ali out early, I think we're well on top in the game and we can look to push the game forward after that."
Bird is playing his third Test in succession, having initially been recalled at the start of 2016 following a two-and-a-half-year spell in the wilderness. "I don't think I've got a point to prove," he insisted.
"It's disappointing when your name doesn't get read out but I feel like I've been bowling pretty well and contributing at good times for the team, which is pleasing for myself. "It's been good fun the last couple of weeks. I'm really enjoying it."
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