Josh Tongue says Joe Root‘s “robust conversation” with the England Test squad has landed “100%” as the second Test against Pakistan begins at Lord’s on Thursday. The fast bowler, who shared ten wickets on day one at Headingley, said the captain “made it clear what he expected” after a week in which off-field conduct, rather than cricket, dominated England’s build-up.
What Josh Tongue said about Joe Root’s message
Root spoke on Tuesday of being “hacked off” by England’s “stupid mistakes” and urged his players to “earn back trust”, according to Sky Sports, after Brydon Carse was dropped from the squad and Sonny Baker called up. Derbyshire police are now investigating an alleged assault in connection with Carse’s arrest, the Guardian reports, adding that it is unclear whether Carse was involved in the alleged incident.
Tongue told reporters the penny had “100%” dropped. “We are very privileged to put on the England shirt,” he said, per the Guardian, while BBC Sport reported that the captain’s message on off-field behaviour had been heeded across the dressing room.
England eye a first series win since 2024
England lead 1-0 after their Headingley victory and, as Ali Martin writes in the Guardian, have a golden chance to seal a first Test series win since 2024. Babar Azam returns to captain Pakistan after being passed fit following a hand injury, ESPNcricinfo reports, with Salman Agha having deputised at Headingley. Marcus Trescothick remains interim head coach; the Telegraph reports that Stephen Fleming will not arrive in England until after the series.
