Did Josh Tongue Just Make Ashes History at the MCG?
Synopsis
In a stunning display, Josh Tongue became the first England bowler in 27 years to achieve a five-wicket haul at the MCG during a gripping Boxing Day Test. This remarkable feat not only brought England back into the Ashes series but also showcased Tongue's potential as a rising star in cricket.
Key Takeaways
Josh Tongue became the first England bowler to take five wickets at the MCG since 1998.
He recorded figures of 5-45 in a crucial Boxing Day Test.
This performance revitalized England's chances in the Ashes series .
Tongue's previous best was 5/66 against Ireland.
The match attracted a significant crowd of 93,442 at the MCG.
Melbourne, Dec 26 (NationPress) Josh Tongue made history as he became the first England bowler in this century to achieve a five-wicket haul in Men's Tests at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Friday.
Tongue recorded figures of 5-45 during Australia's first innings, which concluded at 152 all out. Despite being down 3-0 in the series, Tongue's remarkable performance ensured that England bowled out Australia in their first innings of the Boxing Day Test.
This marked the first instance of an England bowler capturing a five-wicket haul at the MCG since Darren Gough and Dean Headley accomplished the feat in 1998, thus ending a 27-year drought and revitalizing an Ashes series already secured by Australia.
The spell also represented Tongue's finest moment in Test cricket, surpassing his previous best of 5/66 against Ireland at Lord's in 2023. In Australia’s second innings, Tongue will be eyeing a hat-trick after dismissing Scott Boland (0) and Michael Neser (35) with the last two balls of the hosts' first innings.
Australia struggled initially against a stellar bowling display from England after opting to field. Tongue took out three of the top four Australian batsmen as the hosts lost four wickets in the morning session.
Khawaja was dismissed in the fourth over post-lunch after a successful review, and Carey fell victim to the leg slip trap. Just when it appeared batting was stable, Cameron Green was run out. Michael Neser contributed a valuable 35 runs, including seven fours, but Tongue returned to finish the innings, marking his third Test five-wicket haul.
Notably, the MCG witnessed a crowd of 93,442 spectators, a number that could potentially increase.
Point of View
Josh Tongue's achievement is a testament to England's resilience in the Ashes series. His historic five-wicket haul at the MCG not only breaks a long-standing drought but also injects excitement into an otherwise challenging series for England. Tongue's performance deserves recognition as it showcases the potential of emerging talents in international cricket.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a five-wicket haul?
A five-wicket haul refers to a bowler taking five wickets in a single innings of a match, a significant achievement in cricket.
When did England last have a bowler take five wickets at the MCG?
The last England bowler to take five wickets at the MCG was Darren Gough in 1998.
What were Tongue's figures against Australia?
Josh Tongue achieved bowling figures of 5 wickets for 45 runs during Australia's first innings.
What is the significance of the Boxing Day Test?
The Boxing Day Test is a traditional cricket match that takes place on December 26, often featuring Australia and England in the Ashes series.
