Josh Tongue leads England's new-look Test attack

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, September 9, 2026

Josh Tongue has been a standout performer in England’s Test bowling lineup, helping secure a 2-0 series lead over Pakistan with 13 wickets at an average of 12.46. His unique bowling style and partnership with teammates like Ollie Robinson are viewed as key to England’s evolving pace attack ahead of major upcoming tours including the Ashes.

Josh Tongue has emerged as a key figure in England’s revitalized Test bowling attack, playing a pivotal role in the team’s current series lead against Pakistan. The Nottinghamshire fast bowler has delivered his best performances this summer, securing his place across all international formats.

England’s new-look pace unit, comprising Tongue, Ollie Robinson, Jofra Archer, and Gus Atkinson, has dismantled a struggling Pakistan side to claim a 2-0 advantage ahead of the final Test at Edgbaston, which commenced this morning. This quartet is seen by many as a promising foundation for England’s attack following the retirement of former stalwarts Jimmy Anderson and Stuart Broad.

Tongue highlighted the complementary dynamics within the group, noting, “We’re gelling really well as a four. We complement each other really well.” He emphasized the role played by Robinson, who has returned to Test cricket as an economical bowler, allowing Tongue and the others to take more attacking risks. Robinson has maintained an impressive economy rate of just 2.05 runs per over in the series.

The 28-year-old fast bowler has taken 13 wickets against Pakistan at an average of 12.46, contributing significantly to England’s bowling dominance. Across his 14 Test matches to date, Tongue has amassed 70 wickets at an average of 26.47, with a striking strike rate of 38.9 balls per wicket. Despite these figures, Tongue acknowledged a desire to improve his economy rate, currently at 4.07 runs per over, while embracing his role as the team’s “X-factor” bowler responsible for taking wickets at crucial moments.

Tongue’s unusual bowling action, which pitches the ball from a challenging angle, has been instrumental in generating movement and unsettling batsmen. Though this distinctive style has occasionally led to injury challenges in the past, he has remained durable this season, featuring in five Tests, four T20 internationals, two One Day Internationals, and all matches for Manchester Originals in The Hundred competition.

Known for his composed and relaxed demeanor on the field, Tongue refrains from engaging in on-field verbal exchanges unless provoked by opposing players. His calm approach has fostered constructive relationships within the team, particularly with Jofra Archer, who often provides guidance during matches.

Looking ahead, England will rely on Tongue to maintain his form as they prepare for upcoming tours, including a notable winter assignment in South Africa and the much-anticipated Ashes series.

The probable lineup for England in the final Test includes Zak Crawley, Alex Lees, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root (captain), Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (wicketkeeper), Gus Atkinson, Ollie Robinson, Jofra Archer, and Josh Tongue. Pakistan’s expected XI features Aamir Ali, Saud Shakeel, Abdullah Shafique, Mohammad Rizwan (captain), Haris Rauf, and others as they seek to counter England’s potent bowling attack.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.