Tongue's Selection Reinforces England’s Search for Wickets

Josh Tongue’s place in the XI comes at a crucial moment for England. The 28-year-old has already built a reputation for breaking partnerships and forcing breakthroughs, taking 31 wickets in his first six Tests at a strike rate of 44.1 balls per wicket. Stokes highlighted the unique angles Tongue creates at the crease and the natural threat he brings whenever he has the ball in hand.

“We feel like what Tonguey possesses in terms of his angles that he creates at the crease, and his natural wicket-taking ability is something that we feel is going to help us out this week.”

Tongue is a man with a great record against Steven Smith. He has dismissed him on four occasions, in four innings, among them the 2023 Ashes Test at Lord's and county cricket. Such ability of the Tongue in dismissing a world-level batter will make him a useful attraction in a venue such as Adelaide Oval.

Gus Atkinson, who makes way for Tongue, has struggled for wickets in the series so far. He has bowled 54 overs for just three wickets, although Stokes reiterated that Atkinson has been “incredibly unlucky,” especially with the new ball.

“It’s a huge ask for any seamer to be able to play five games… Gus has bowled very well out here. He’s just been incredibly unlucky.”

Brydon Carse will share the new ball with Jofra Archer, a shift designed to add variety and intensity to England’s opening spells.

Why Jacks Stays and Bashir Misses Out

One of the more debated calls is England’s choice to retain Will Jacks ahead of Shoaib Bashir, even though Adelaide traditionally favours spin. Bashir’s omission appears to contrast with Stokes’ earlier comment that he remained England’s “number one spinner,” but the team has prioritised all-round balance following two early defeats.

“It was a tough decision to come to… We’re 2-0 down, and we're trying to give ourselves the best chance with bat and ball.”

Jack impressed in Brisbane with 60 runs, steady bowling, and a stunning catch at long leg. His ability to contribute in multiple phases of the game gives England greater flexibility while chasing runs or defending totals. Stokes also praised his composure and readiness for tough roles.

Even at a venue where Nathan Lyon has enjoyed great success, England believes Jacks’ combination of batting and spin bowling better suits the immediate needs of the side.

“We feel having Jacksy down at No. 8 obviously strengthens our batting a little bit deeper… and he’s more than capable enough to handle that role with the ball.”

Rotation, depth management, and tactical response to conditions have all influenced this call.

Assessing Adelaide Conditions and England’s Tactical Plan

Adelaide Oval is expected to behave differently from the first two venues of the series. Stokes anticipates a pitch with less bounce but a truer surface, one that rewards bowlers capable of creating their own wicket-taking moments.

“I feel like on this surface in Adelaide, that kind of natural attribute is something that you’ll probably have to call on at some point.”

Tongue fits that description well. His ability to trouble both top order and tailenders gives England a weapon for long spells and pressure periods. His performances against India last summer 19 wickets, including a five-for at The Oval, further justify his selection.

Carse also comes into the new-ball role with backing from Stokes:

“He’s someone who will always get the ball, run in, and give everything.”

The England captain thinks that hard work and intensity will play as significant a role as talent in Adelaide, and the team must make breakthroughs in critical times to stay competitive.

Some changes can be expected on the Australian side. Pat Cummins will become the captain again. Nathan Lyon will probably come back following his absence in the Brisbane pink-ball Test. The final batting position will be determined between Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, and Beau Webster.

England XI for the 3rd Test

1 Zak Crawley, 2 Ben Duckett, 3 Ollie Pope, 4 Joe Root, 5 Harry Brook, 6 Ben Stokes (capt), 7 Jamie Smith (wk), 8 Will Jacks, 9 Brydon Carse, 10 Jofra Archer, 11 Josh Tongue.