Are England's Preparations Enough for the Ashes? Josh Tongue Weighs In
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Synopsis
As the Ashes series approaches, England's Josh Tongue shares insights about the team's preparations. With confidence high, can they overcome their past struggles in Australia? Join us as we delve into the team's mindset and strategies ahead of this crucial Test series.
Key Takeaways
- Josh Tongue expresses confidence in England's preparations.
- England aims to overcome a long-standing losing streak in Australia.
- Key Australian players will miss the first Test due to injury.
- England's squad includes star bowlers like Jofra Archer and Mark Wood.
- Both teams are focused on adapting to challenges leading into the series.
Perth, Nov 18 (NationPress) England fast bowler Josh Tongue expresses satisfaction with the squad's preparations for the upcoming Ashes series and is optimistic about achieving a series victory against Australia.
The five-match Test series is set to begin at Perth's Optus Stadium on Friday, as both teams strive to claim the coveted urn.
England has not secured an Ashes win in Australia since 2015 and has suffered significant defeats during their last three Test tours Down Under.
Despite receiving criticism for only participating in a single warm-up match against the England Lions at Lilac Hill, the team remains assured about their preparation leading up to the series opener.
"It feels incredibly exciting. We've had a solid preparation. Some of us were in New Zealand earlier to get ready for this. I believe our preparation has been effective. With bowlers like Jofra Archer and Mark Wood in our squad, we possess that X factor," Tongue shared with reporters on Tuesday.
"The pace and the bouncy wickets certainly favor the fast bowlers, enhancing the skills we possess as a group. I think we have a great chance to perform well."
Australia will be missing key bowlers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood for the first Test; however, wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith acknowledges that the home side has sufficient strength to fill the gaps in the lineup.
"I still believe they (Australia) have a formidable attack... While the absence of those two world-class players is notable, every time you face Australia, you know the replacements are also exceptional players," Smith commented.
"It's important to respect both the absent players and those stepping in, while concentrating on what we can excel at as we approach this first Test."
Point of View
It's clear that England's cricket team is under considerable pressure as they head into the Ashes series. The confidence expressed by players like Josh Tongue reflects a focused approach to overcoming past challenges. However, the absence of key Australian players adds an intriguing dynamic to the series. Fans will be keenly watching how both teams adapt and perform under pressure.
NationPress
18/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key dates for the Ashes series?
The Ashes series begins on November 20, 2023, at Perth's Optus Stadium, with five Test matches scheduled.
Why is England's past performance in Australia a concern?
England has not won the Ashes in Australia since 2015 and has faced significant defeats in their most recent visits, raising concerns about their ability to compete.
Who are the notable players missing from the Australian squad?
Key Australian bowlers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood will not participate in the first Test due to injury.
What does Josh Tongue think about the team's preparation?
Josh Tongue believes the squad has had an effective build-up and feels confident about their chances to perform well in the series.
How does the absence of key players affect Australia's strategy?
Despite missing top players, Australia still has a strong bench, and they remain a formidable opponent, according to players like Jamie Smith.
