With the high-stakes five-match Test series between India and England just around the corner, starting June 20 at Headingley, the hosts have been dealt a major setback. Fast bowler Josh Tongue hobbled off the field during the second unofficial Test against India A at Northampton on June 8, casting doubt on his availability for the opening match.
Josh Tongue’s Injury Raises Concerns for England
Tongue, who made his Test debut in 2023, has been one of the promising names in England’s fast-bowling arsenal. However, during the second innings of the unofficial Test, he managed to bowl just four overs before leaving the field, reportedly in discomfort. The severity of the injury is still unknown, and England’s medical staff are assessing whether he can be fit in time for the first Test against India.
The 27-year-old bowler had figures of 2/91 in 20.3 overs in the first innings, picking up the wickets of Tanush Kotian and Anshul Kamboj. His overall performance in the match was solid but far from his best. In his most recent appearance for England, Tongue featured in the four-day Test against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge, where he picked up only two wickets, though England secured a comfortable win.
England’s Fast Bowling Options for India Series
Even without Josh Tongue, England has a strong pool of pace bowlers to choose from. The squad includes experienced campaigner Chris Woakes, the in-form Brydon Carse, Sam Cook, Jamie Overton, and all-rounder and skipper Ben Stokes.
Tongue has played three Tests so far, with his standout performance being a five-wicket haul (5/66) on debut against Ireland at Lord’s. With 12 Test wickets to his name, he was expected to play a key role in the upcoming India series, especially on home turf where conditions often favour seamers.
As the series opener in Leeds approaches, England’s selectors will be closely monitoring Tongue’s fitness. His absence would be a blow, but the depth in the squad provides a cushion as they prepare to face a formidable Indian side over the next two months.
