Josh Tongue's journey back to the cricket field has been nothing short of remarkable. After suffering from a debilitating nerve condition that sidelined him for 15 months, the fast bowler faced a series of challenges, including two unsuccessful shoulder surgeries and a third procedure that involved rib removal. During this difficult period, he experienced constant pain, affecting his daily life and leading him to contemplate retirement from the sport he loves.
It was during this challenging time that a specialist recommended Botox injections as a potential treatment. To Tongue's relief, the treatment proved effective, allowing him to return to bowling within two months. By the winter of 2022, he was already making an impact in the England Lions squad against Sri Lanka, where he took eight wickets in one match, marking a significant turning point in his career.
In June 2023, Tongue made his Test debut against Ireland at Lord's, where he showcased his potential by claiming 5 wickets for 66 runs in the second innings. His impressive performance earned him a spot in the Ashes series later that summer, but just as he began to establish himself, he faced another setback with a pectoral injury followed by a hamstring issue that forced him to miss the entire 2024 season.
However, Tongue's resilience shone through as he made a triumphant return in early 2025, playing a pivotal role in Nottinghamshire's County Championship title victory by taking 31 wickets in just six matches. Additionally, he emerged as the leading wicket-taker in The Hundred, claiming 14 wickets for Manchester Originals, further solidifying his status as a rising star in English cricket.
Since his return to international cricket, Tongue has elevated his game significantly. He currently ranks as one of the top wicket-takers in the ongoing World Test Championship cycle, second only to Australia's Mitchell Starc. In the 2025 Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, he led England in wickets and was instrumental in England's victory at the MCG during the Ashes, where he was named Player of the Match. Most recently, he delivered an outstanding performance against Pakistan at Leeds, taking eight wickets and contributing to an innings defeat for the visitors.
Tongue's bowling style has also garnered attention. Standing at 6 feet 4 inches tall, he possesses a high release point and an unconventional arm angle that makes him particularly challenging for batters. His unique bowling technique allows him to angle the ball into right-handers while also maintaining the ability to land it on the seam, creating uncertainty for opposing batsmen. This combination of pace, bounce, and an unusual angle has made him a valuable asset in England's bowling attack, which already features a diverse range of fast bowlers.
With two Tests remaining against Pakistan, Tongue has already established himself as a key figure in England's plans. His recent eight-wicket haul at Headingley demonstrated his effectiveness against the Pakistani batting lineup, and the team will be looking to him for continued success in the upcoming matches at Lord's and Edgbaston. Furthermore, Tongue's prospects in white-ball cricket appear promising, having recently made his T20I debut with a four-wicket haul against India. The next year could be crucial for him as he aims to secure a place in the shorter formats of the game, particularly with the 2027 ODI World Cup on the horizon.
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