England fast bowler Josh Tongue has expressed his eagerness to take the wicket of Australian batsman Steve Smith in the second Test of the ongoing Ashes series. The second Test between England and Australia is scheduled to begin at Lord’s Cricket Ground in London on June 28.
England recently announced their playing XI for the second Test, with Josh Tongue included in the team to replace the injured Moeen Ali. The England lineup will feature four frontline seamers, with Ben Stokes and Joe Root providing all-round batting contributions.
Speaking ahead of the second Ashes Test, Josh Tongue described playing in an Ashes match as a childhood dream come true. “As a kid, I always dreamt of playing in an Ashes series, so getting the opportunity now is truly a dream come true. It would be fantastic to dismiss Steve Smith once again. I was quite pleased with it the first time,” Tongue told The Mail.
The right-arm pacer had previously dismissed Steve Smith during a County Championship match between Worcestershire and Sussex, where he trapped the former Australian captain leg-before-wicket for 30 runs.
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Josh Tongue emphasized that he would follow the team management’s plans for the upcoming match. With England having a predominantly one-dimensional attack, Tongue’s addition will provide extra pace to the lineup.
“The atmosphere after Zak Crawley hit that boundary off my first ball was simply incredible. Since joining the dressing room before the Ireland game, I have been made to feel incredibly welcome. I’m here to fulfill whatever role Stokesy assigns to me,” he added.
Tongue acknowledged that the transition to international cricket is a significant step, but his five-wicket haul against Ireland in his Test debut has boosted his confidence and should hold him in good stead against Australia.
The 25-year-old fast bowler made his Test debut against Ireland earlier this month at the same venue, Lord’s. Despite going wicketless in the first innings, he showcased his bowling skills by taking five wickets in the second innings, contributing to England’s comprehensive 10-wicket victory within three days.