It was great to welcome Josh Tongue to B3 this week to pick up a couple of new bats and have a catch up.
Josh joined our team of Pro Ambassadors in 2023 as a Worcestershire player. Not long after, he earned his first England call-up, giving us all immense pride to see a B3 player representing his country on the world’s most iconic stage - Lord’s, the Home of Cricket. It was during the second innings against Australia that we realised we weren’t just backing a top-class fast bowler but potentially a genuine all-rounder.
Josh was born into cricket. His dad was a talented club cricketer and coach, and Josh’s natural ability was clear from the start. Incredibly, he played for Worcestershire’s U10s at just six years old! He progressed through the county age group system, but his rise hit a bump in 2016 when a stress fracture in his back required surgery. He bounced back strongly and in 2017, aged 19, signed a four-year deal with Worcestershire.
That same year, he played a huge role in the club’s promotion, taking 47 Championship wickets. His sharp pace, bounce and effortless action also earned him England U19 and Lions honours.
However, his career nearly came to an early end when a serious nerve issue in his shoulder sidelined him for 15 months. After multiple surgeries and a tough rehab, Josh returned with a bang on a Lions tour to Sri Lanka, catching the eye of England Head Coach Brendon McCullum, who brought him into the Test squad in 2023.
After making an impressive start on the international stage, Josh signed with Nottinghamshire. Unfortunately, injury once again delayed his debut. But last week (April 2025), he finally pulled on the Notts shirt—and it was worth the wait. Against a strong Durham side (which, incidentally, featured three fellow B3 pros: Graham Clark, Will Rhodes and Paul Coughlin), Josh delivered a standout performance. He scored his maiden first-class half-century and claimed 7 wickets, earning a well-deserved Player of the Match award.
It was brilliant to catch up with Josh at B3 HQ this week, where we filmed a short interview, which we will share soon! Josh truly embodies the ups and downs of life as a professional athlete, especially in the demanding world of fast bowling.