Josh Tongue

Josh Tongue, born on January 22, 1998, in Stourbridge, West Midlands, is not the type of cricketer to make an entrance with a flashy smile or an over-the-top celebration. Instead, his impact is felt in the relentless thud of the ball on the pitch, the hum of raw pace, and the whizz of a delivery that unsettles even the most experienced of batters. Tongue is the embodiment of quiet intensity, a fast bowler whose rise through the ranks of English cricket has been as swift and as thrilling as the balls he delivers—raw, aggressive, and designed to intimidate.

His journey started in the youth ranks of Worcestershire, where, like many great fast bowlers, he honed his craft in the nets and on the county grounds. A product of Worcestershire’s youth system, Tongue represented his county at various age-group levels, showcasing a special blend of pace and bounce that would soon make him one of the most talked-about young pacers in the country. At just 17, he made his first senior appearance for Worcestershire in 2015, and the world began to take note of the fiery bowler with the pace to rattle any lineup.

By 2017, Tongue was no longer a potential future star—he was a force in Worcestershire's attack, dominating with his raw pace and his ability to swing the ball with pinpoint accuracy. His performances were earning him attention, and in 2018, he earned a spot with the England Lions, marking the beginning of his national ambitions. From there, it was clear: Tongue had the potential to go far. His rapid pace was a weapon, and his determination was a driving force that could take him to the international stage.

His breakthrough came in June 2021 when he made his Test debut for England against New Zealand. The Test arena, where fast bowlers are measured not just by speed but by the way they impose their will on the game, was the perfect setting for Tongue to announce his arrival. He didn’t just take part in the match—he made an impact, offering a taste of his aggression and ability to bowl with fiery pace and relentless commitment. It was the first chapter in what promised to be a long, compelling international career.

While his Test career is where the limelight often shines brightest, Tongue has been quietly honing his skills across formats. In List A cricket, he has showcased his ability to produce match-winning spells, even in the demanding world of 50-over cricket.

Tongue’s T20 career is another testament to his versatility. While T20 cricket often celebrates the big hitters, Tongue brings balance to the table with his ability to stop batters with sheer pace and accuracy.

However, it’s in the County Championship where Tongue has truly made his mark. With 58 wickets in the 2022 season, he established himself as one of the finest fast bowlers in county cricket. His pace could flatten opposition batting lineups, and his stamina allowed him to bowl long, unrelenting spells, wearing down batsmen over time. It wasn’t just about speed—it was about control, and Tongue showed he had plenty of it.

Tongue’s journey through franchise cricket has been equally promising. He represented Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred, where his pace made him a key asset in the competition's high-octane environment. His experience in these leagues has not only helped him refine his skills but also brought him exposure on the global stage, where his reputation is beginning to grow beyond county cricket.

Away from the cricket field, the speedster is known for his quiet determination. A confessed football fan, he supports Aston Villa, and off the field, he leads a relatively private life, focused on maintaining his fitness and continuing to improve as a bowler. His commitment to staying in peak physical condition ensures that his pace remains sharp, even as the demands of international cricket intensify.

Josh Tongue’s career speaks volumes about resilience and the pursuit of excellence. He isn’t just content with being a fast bowler; he’s a student of the game, constantly refining his skills, always working to push the boundaries of what he can achieve. For young cricketers looking for a blueprint to follow, Tongue’s rise is a lesson in perseverance, aggression, and consistency—qualities that make him one of the most exciting fast bowlers to emerge in English cricket in recent years.

As his journey continues, one thing is clear: Josh Tongue’s storm isn’t just gathering—it’s roaring. And it’s only a matter of time before the cricketing world is forced to take full notice.

(As of May 2025)