Chris Woakes has been excluded from the playing eleven for the Lord’s Test against Ireland, commencing on June 1. In the absence of James Anderson and Ollie Robinson due to groin and ankle injuries respectively, Worcestershire’s fast bowler, Josh Tongue, will make his debut after being drafted into the squad as cover last week.
Josh Tongue, aged 25, showcased his skills during the second unofficial Test with England Lions against Sri Lanka A in February, where he recorded figures of 5 for 34 and 3 for 77. Having collected 162 First-Class wickets in 82 innings, the right-arm pacer’s journey has been remarkable, considering he contemplated retirement following a 15-month absence from the game due to a shoulder injury.
Expressing his delight, Tongue said, “It’s an incredible feeling. To be truthful, I am speechless. From the moment I was asked to join the squad, to now being chosen for the real team, it feels like a dream that has finally come to fruition. Coach Brendon McCullum approached me just before the conclusion of training today. I had just finished a gym session, and he shared the good news with me.”
The team representing England against Ireland includes Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes as captain, Jonny Bairstow as wicketkeeper, Stuart Broad, Matthew Potts, Josh Tongue, and Jack Leach.
