Josh tongue’s Five-Wicket haul Sparks England’s Fightback in Chaotic Boxing Day Test
England seamer Josh Tongue delivered a career-defining performance, claiming 5-45 as 20 wickets fell on a dramatic opening day of the fourth Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Despite a dismal batting performance, England’s bowlers – led by Tongue – managed to keep the contest alive against Australia.
Melbourne Meltdown: A Day of Wickets
the Boxing Day Test unfolded as a chaotic affair, wiht both teams succumbing to aggressive bowling and challenging conditions. A remarkable 20 wickets tumbled within seven hours of play, setting the stage for a gripping contest.england was bowled out for a paltry 110, their lowest first-innings total in Australia as 1977, handing Australia a narrow 42-run lead.
Tongue Troubles Smith, Again
Central to England’s fightback was the continued success of Tongue against Australian superstar Steve Smith. The seamer dismissed Smith for 9, adding to a growing list of dismissals that has seen him become a genuine threat to the Australian batting mainstay. “When I see the ball coming back in, I know I’m in a good place.”
A Hard-Earned Recall and Immediate Impact
Tongue’s performance is particularly noteworthy given his earlier omission from the squad for the first two ashes Tests. Recalled for the Adelaide contest, he has quickly established himself as a key weapon in the England attack, claiming ten wickets at 17.90. His eight-over burst before lunch on Friday saw him dismantle the Australian top order, removing Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, and Smith. This performance culminated in him becoming the first Englishman to take a five-wicket haul in a Boxing Day Test at the MCG since 1998.
“It’s a dream come true,” Tongue shared, reflecting on the meaning of the occasion. “I’ve always wanted to play in the Ashes, if it’s home or away, and it obviously feels very special being here at the MCG with all my family in as well, which makes it even better.” He emphasized his commitment to the team’s success, adding, “I wont to make a difference in the side and take wickets for England, and that’s how we’re going to win games of cricket.”
Overcoming Adversity: A Testament to Resilience
Tongue’s journey to this point has been marked by notable challenges. He has battled back from thoracic outlet syndrome – a condition affecting nerves and blood vessels near the shoulder – and recently recovered from a 15-month layoff due to a pectoral muscle rupture and a torn hamstring.
“I feel like the hard work that I put in,investing in my body and making sure I’m in a good place physically,I’ve got to give myself a bit of credit,” he acknowledged,highlighting the dedication required for his return to form.
Favorable Conditions and a Positive Approach
The seamer also acknowledged the assistance provided by the MCG’s green pitch, which offered significant seam movement. “I feel like if you put the ball in the right areas, which I felt like we did today as a bowling unit, you’re going to get your rewards,” he said. He noted the importance of a fuller length, emphasizing the need to “hit the pitch hard.”
Despite the challenging batting conditions, Tongue remained optimistic about England’s approach. “I don’t mind, it’s how we play our cricket,” he said. “We play a very positive brand of cricket.We try and put pressure on the opposition and take it back to them.Obviously it didn’t work that well today.”
The fourth Ashes test between Australia and England will resume on Saturday at 10:30 am AEDT.
