Uncapped Worcestershire seamer Josh Tongue has earned a call-up to England’s 16-man Test squad for the one-off match against Ireland next month. Tongue is expected to provide cover for the experienced pacer James Anderson, who is recovering from a minor groin strain. Additionally, Ollie Robinson’s ankle issue is likely to prevent him from featuring in the Test at Lord’s. Alongside Stuart Broad, Chris Woakes, Matthew Potts, and Mark Wood, the 25-year-old pacer will form part of the fast bowling department for the match commencing on June 1.
Tongue’s journey has been marked by resilience, as he battled a shoulder injury that sidelined him for 15 months. However, he made a comeback towards the end of last season, featuring in Worcestershire’s last three Championship games and claiming five wickets. He further showcased his potential during the England Lions’ tour of Sri Lanka, where he impressed with eight wickets in the unofficial Test against Sri Lanka A, including a five-wicket haul in the first innings.
Starting the County season on a high note, Tongue took 11 wickets in four Division Two Championship matches and even dismissed Australian great Steve Smith in the match against Sussex.
“We have been monitoring Josh (Tongue) for quite some time and he deserves this call-up to the Test squad. It will be a great experience for him to understand and get used to the environment under Ben and Brendon,” said Luke Wright, England men’s national selector.
“It is important to have players ready to respond and with a big summer of Test cricket coming up, we will need that depth to our squad. We wish Josh and the rest of the squad well for the first international of the campaign,” he added.
The solitary Test against Ireland is scheduled at Lord’s from June 1-4, followed by the Ashes series against Australia commencing on June 16 at Edgbaston.