Josh Tongue Australia white-ball tour — England fast bowler Josh Tongue has been ruled out of the upcoming white-ball tour of Australia after sustaining a toe injury, the team has confirmed. The 28-year-old will return to the UK for further assessment, missing the one-day and T20 matches scheduled to begin with an ODI in Perth on 13 November.
Tongue picked up the problem during last month’s tour of Pakistan and was absent for the final two games of the tri-series. His absence is a setback for an England side preparing for a busy winter that includes five separate overseas tours.
Despite the injury, Tongue is expected to be available for the three-match Test series in South Africa in December. The squad for that series is due to be named next week, offering him a chance to recover in time for the red-ball campaign.
The 28-year-old has been in strong form this year, claiming 46 wickets in 17 matches across formats. His performances had marked him as a key part of England’s plans, particularly with the Test side looking ahead to the South Africa series.
Rashid makes his mark in Perth
While Tongue’s injury dominated the news, Adil Rashid provided a timely reminder of his value in the warm-up match against Western Australia in Perth. The leg-spinner took 4-35 as England secured a 92-run victory.
Rashid had been left out of the final three matches of October’s tour of Pakistan and Sri Lanka, but his performance down under highlighted his importance to the white-ball side. England bowled Western Australia out for 159, with Jofra Archer contributing 3-34 to wrap up the tail.
England’s batting was less convincing, as they were bowled out for 251. Ben Duckett top-scored with 49, while Liam Dawson finished unbeaten on 44. The hosts had England at 60-1 before Rashid struck in quick succession, removing Jayden Goodwin and Ashton Turner with consecutive deliveries.
McCullum's plans take shape
The tour of Australia marks England’s first visit down under since the 2025-26 Ashes series. Coach Brendon McCullum had previously stressed the need for a strong squad for the ODI leg as England build towards the World Cup in southern Africa next year.
McCullum also acknowledged that he would need to rotate his squad for the T20 matches, given the demanding schedule of five overseas tours this winter. The warm-up win, despite a patchy batting display, offered encouragement as England adjust to conditions in Australia.
With Tongue sidelined, England’s bowling resources will be tested, but the return of Rashid to form provides a significant boost. The 38-year-old’s experience and wicket-taking ability could prove crucial as England navigate a challenging white-ball series.
Tongue’s injury will be monitored closely, with the Test series in South Africa looming. His availability for that campaign remains a priority for England, who will hope the toe problem is not serious enough to disrupt his winter entirely.
