England fast bowler Josh Tongue has described seeing his name etched on the honours board at the Melbourne Cricket Ground as “a pretty special feeling,” after producing a match-winning five-wicket haul in the fourth Test of Ashes 2025-26. The moment capped a remarkable performance on one of cricket’s biggest stages and marked a deeply personal milestone in Tongue’s journey.
For any visiting player, the MCG honours board carries almost mythical significance. For Tongue, who admits he once feared his career might end prematurely, seeing his name alongside greats of the game represented far more than just a statistical achievement.
Nerves, dreams and a five-wicket haul for Josh Tongue in Boxing Day Test
Tongue, the Player of the Match of the 4th Test against Australia, revealed that the emotions began early on Boxing Day morning. Waking up to the enormity of the occasion, he admitted to feeling “a few nerves,” fully aware of what was at stake in front of one of the largest crowds in world cricket.
Those nerves soon transformed into inspiration. Tongue tore through the Australian batting line-up to claim a five-for, a spell that played a decisive role in securing a famous England victory. The achievement also guaranteed his place on the MCG honours board, a lifelong ambition realised in unforgettable fashion.
“It’s what dreams are made of. Obviously waking up on Boxing Day, a few nerves but yeah, to get a fifer and get my name on the honours board, it’s a very special feeling,” Tongue said in post-match interview to Isa Guha.
95,000 cricket fans at MCG and a roaring Barmy Army
What made the achievement even sweeter was the backdrop. Around 95,000 fans packed into the MCG, creating an atmosphere Tongue described as “amazing.” Amid the sea of noise, the familiar chants of the Barmy Army rang out, lending vocal support to England’s charge.
Tongue said the energy from the stands fuelled him, making the experience feel surreal. “I can’t be happy enough,” he admitted, reflecting on being part of a Test-winning England side at such an iconic venue.
Beyond the wickets and the roar of the crowd lies a powerful comeback story. Tongue openly acknowledged that his MCG success felt even more meaningful given the battles he has faced off the field. A series of serious injuries had once left his future in doubt, with the bowler admitting he had been “potentially retiring” at one stage.
The road back was long and demanding, filled with rehabilitation, setbacks and uncertainty. But Tongue’s determination never wavered. “Playing for England is all that I’ve ever wanted to do,” he said, explaining why he pushed through the hardest moments.
