Josh Tongue produced two crucial breakthroughs on Day 1 of the fifth Test at The Oval, dismissing Sai Sudharsan and Ravindra Jadeja in quick succession to wrest momentum firmly in England’s favor.
India, looking to rebuild after early losses, were beginning to find stability through Sudharsan when Tongue delivered a perfectly pitched outswinger that kissed the edge and carried through to the keeper. Sudharsan’s patient 38 had anchored the innings, and his dismissal halted India’s progress at a pivotal moment.
Barely overs later, Jadeja became Tongue’s next victim. Another ball in the same corridor of uncertainty tempted a defensive prod, resulting in an identical edge behind. The left-hander fell for 9, leaving India suddenly exposed and shifting the mood of the match.
Tongue’s spell stood out for its adaptability. After an erratic start, he adjusted his line and found the ideal movement on a surface offering just enough seam assistance under cloudy skies. His twin strikes reduced India’s promising position into one of caution, putting the onus on the lower middle order to salvage a total.
For England, it was a textbook example of using conditions to maximum effect. Gus Atkinson continued to build pressure from the other end, while Tongue’s dismissals punctured India’s resistance precisely when the visitors were beginning to settle.
The wickets not only showcased Tongue’s skill but also underscored his growing importance in England’s pace attack. With both set and dangerous batters removed, England ended the session in control, carrying momentum into the remainder of the match.