England vs Pakistan: Josh Tongue and Ollie Robinson Split Headingley Ball in Half
BBC Sport reports on an extraordinary moment during the first Test between England and Pakistan at Headingley.
Josh Tongue and Ollie Robinson, both England seamers, became the first pair to take five-wicket hauls in the same innings for 20 years. In a unique ceremony, they decided to split the ball in half as a memento.
"It’s the first time I’ve seen that happen," Tongue humorously noted.
The duo’s remarkable achievement came as England, under Joe Root’s captaincy, skittled Pakistan for 171 on the opening day. Their combined efforts left Pakistan reeling at 112-2 by the close.
This momentous occasion marked the first time since 2006 that an English bowling pair achieved five-wicket hauls in the same Test innings—the last time being Steve Harmison and Monty Panesar against Pakistan at Old Trafford.
Robinson, celebrating his return to the England team after a two-year absence, dedicated his performance to his newborn baby, Eva, born just days before.
"I’ve been catching up on my sleep since I got to the hotel in Leeds… It’s a really special week having another baby. It almost makes today even sweeter." – Ollie Robinson
