The opening match of the Ashes 2023 was fiercely contested by England and Australia, with both teams evenly matched throughout the five days at Edgbaston. However, it was skipper Pat Cummins’ exceptional innings towards the end that propelled Australia to a thrilling two-wicket victory. Ahead of the second Ashes Test at Lord’s Cricket Ground on June 28, England announced their squad in a bid to make a comeback in the series. Notably, veteran all-rounder Moeen Ali was excluded, while 25-year-old Josh Tongue was included, adding to England’s pace attack alongside Joe Root as the spin option.
In a video shared by the ECB on social media, Josh Tongue expressed his excitement about stepping onto the field and fulfilling his childhood dream. He reflected on the moment and conveyed his eagerness to contribute to the team’s success.
“It is an amazing feeling. I grew up as a young kid always wanting to be in an Ashes series. It’s a dream come true, and I am looking forward to get going,”
Josh Tongue said.
“Anyone who would play in an Ashes series would say that it is special. Because of what I have been through as well, it’s a special moment for me and my family. To be here in front of a packed house at the Lord’s, the Home of Cricket, can’t wait,”
he further added.
It’s just an amazing feeling to get the nod: Tongue
“I still don’t think the Ireland Test match has sunk in that much really. It’s just an amazing feeling to get the nod, it was a special moment for me, didn’t get wickets in the first innings. But to be able to get the first two wickets in the first over took the pressure of me. Getting five wickets at Lord’s and being on the Honours Board is always special,”
Tongue further stated.
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