England's veteran fast bowler Stuart Broad has heaped significant praise on young pacer Josh Tongue, stating that the bowler has immensely benefited from being part of the ongoing Ashes tour in Australia. Broad's comments come after Tongue delivered a match-winning performance in the fourth Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), playing a pivotal role in ending England's long wait for a victory on Australian soil.
From Sidelines to Spotlight: Tongue's Meteoric Rise
Josh Tongue, who was not selected for the first two Tests in Perth and Brisbane, seized his opportunity after being included in the playing XI for the Adelaide Test. His impact was immediate and profound. In the second innings at Adelaide, he claimed a four-wicket haul, signaling his arrival on the big stage.
However, it was in Melbourne where Tongue truly announced himself. He was the standout performer in England's pace attack, which had endured three heavy defeats prior. Tongue bagged a brilliant five-wicket haul in the first innings and followed it up with two crucial scalps in the second. His efforts were instrumental in securing England's first Test win in Australia after a gap of 5468 days.
In just two Tests so far in the series, Tongue has taken an impressive 12 wickets, establishing himself as a potent new-ball threat. His ability to trouble top-order batsmen, notably dismissing Steve Smith multiple times across Test and county cricket, has been a highlight.
Broad's Verdict: A Selection Error Corrected Too Late?
Analysing the series for Sky Sports, Stuart Broad did not mince words, suggesting that the English team management might have made a strategic error by not picking Tongue earlier. "Tongue should have played more," Broad stated unequivocally.
He pointed to Tongue's Player of the Match award in Melbourne as evidence, questioning the initial selection choices. "You look now and think did England miss a trick not playing him, certainly at The Gabba and maybe even at Optus Stadium in the first Test?" Broad remarked, referring to the venues in Brisbane and Perth where England suffered defeats.
Broad elaborated on Tongue's unique skills, noting his fuller length, the angle created from wider on the crease, and his ability to move the ball away. While acknowledging that the young bowler will have erratic spells, Broad emphasized the value he has added. "Tongue has done himself the world of good being on this trip," Broad concluded, indicating that the experience has significantly elevated the pacer's career prospects.
Looking Ahead: World Cup Call-up and Series Finale
The rewards for Josh Tongue's stellar performances are already coming in. Despite being yet to make his T20 International debut, he has earned a spot in England's provisional squad for the ICC 2026 T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in India. This selection underscores the faith the national selectors have in his burgeoning talent.
The immediate focus, however, remains on the final chapter of the Ashes. England and Australia are set to clash in the fifth and final Test at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), starting on January 4, 2026. With the series already decided in Australia's favour, the match presents an opportunity for England to build momentum and for players like Josh Tongue to further cement their places in the side with another strong showing.
