Pakistan’s wickets fell like a stack. Not even crossing 200 once in this series. But England’s success goes beyond the series. Wreaking havoc all this year. Now, Josh Tongue has revealed it has something to do with Ollie Robinson. But not his bowling.
What Did Josh Tongue Say About Ollie Robinson?
Tongue, appearing in a conversation with Urooj Mumtaz on Sky Sports Cricket, was asked whether he could feel the red balls used this year were bigger this year.
“Yeah, I feel like they’re quite big this year,” Tongue said. “But obviously we’re picking good balls. Robbo’s (Ollie Robinson) been picking the balls for us. Um, and it’s showing out there.”
Picking the right ball is an art form that rarely gets credit in the official match summaries. The seam movement is often decided before a ball is even bowled.
Robinson has quietly taken up the mantle of choosing the right cherry from the box, a hidden skill that’s paying massive dividends for the attack.
At Headingley against Pakistan, Robinson and Tongue carved up the batting lineup. Picking up 5/51 and 5/46, respectively. First time since 2006 that two England bowlers claimed five-wicket hauls in the same Test innings.
Tongue even recently revealed how he’s been adding extra weapons to his arsenal thanks to Robinson’s guidance. Particularly when mastering the wobble seam.
Tongue ended Day 1 at Edgbaston with 42-4. All credited to a good rest after the Lord’s.
“I think ‘cause my workload’s been fairly high this year. It was a good time to have a break from bowling,” Tongue added. “I think I had 5 days off, no bowling, and my first bowl was 2 days before this test.
“And all the bowlers were the same as well… It’s just a good feeling that I feel fresh coming into the last test of the series.”
Marginal gains are everything. When you’ve got players actively sharing tactical tips in the nets and obsessing over which manufactured balls will seam or swing the most, you end a summer with a lethal edge.
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