Whatever happens on what is likely to be the final day of the series, it is clear that Australia's spinners have been spectacular in Sri Lanka.

"He's bowling his best ball over and over, and challenging the guy's defence, and that's all we can ask. He's playing his role to his best ability, and I'm extremely proud of him. This is his fifth Test match, is it? For him to take 16 wickets thus far in this series, with a couple still out there, I think he's been our best bowler."

Lyon, one of Australia's greatest spinners, has taken 13 wickets and on Saturday became the third Australia bowler - after Shane Warne and Glenn McGrath - to go past 550 wickets. But others have contributed too. Todd Murphy, Travis Head, and Beau Webster, have all taken a wicket apiece in Sri Lanka.

"Well, we pride ourselves on improving on our skills - each and every one of us," Lyon said. "For someone like Travis Head, too - we all know he's an X Factor player with the bat - to keep putting his finger in the ice and keep doing those breakthroughs is special.

"But everyone works hard on their game, and they want to play their role. They want to have an impact for the Australian cricket team, and that's something that they should be proud of."

It's been a resounding success in Sri Lanka for Australia's spinners, and Lyon suggested simplicity was at the heart of what they tried to do on these pitches.

"Honestly, we've just been talking about sticking to the process of bowling your best ball, and hopefully that will lead to a couple of chances here and there."