‘It is an amazing feeling’ - Josh Tongue opens up on getting selected for second Ashes Test at Lord's

The Ashes 2023 got off to a thundering start as both England and Australia were neck to neck throughout the five days of first Test at Edgbaston. However, thanks to a brilliant knock by skipper Pat Cummins late into the match that propelled the Aussies to a nail-biting two-wicket victory. 

With the second Ashes Test all set to begin on Wednesday, June 28 at the Lord’s Cricket Ground, England announced their squad for the clash as they look to come back into the series. Notably, veteran all-rounder Moeen Ali was left out of the squad, and 25-year-old Josh Tongue was included in the side as England goes with an all-out pace attack with Joe Root as the spin option.

In a video shared by the ECB across their social media platforms, Josh Tongue came forward to reflect on the moment and stated that he was very excited to get on the pitch and fulfill his childhood dream.

"It is an amazing feeling. I grew up as a young kid always wanting to be in an Ashes series. It’s a dream come true, and I am looking forward to get going," Josh Tongue said in the video.

"Anyone who would play in an Ashes series would say that it is special. Because of what I have been through as well, it’s a special moment for me and my family. To be here in front of a packed house at the Lord’s, the Home of Cricket, can’t wait," he added.

It’s just an amazing feeling to get the nod: Tongue

Despite his selection, this will not be the first time that Tongue takes center stage at Lord's, as he recently made his international debut when England took on Ireland in a one-off Test. Tongue reflected on his performance against Ireland as well, where he took five wickets in the second innings. 

"I still don’t think the Ireland Test match has sunk in that much really. It’s just an amazing feeling to get the nod, it was a special moment for me, didn’t get wickets in the first innings. But to be able to get the first two wickets in the first over took the pressure of me. Getting five wickets at Lord’s and being on the Honours Board is always special," Tongue said.