Josh Tongue says Joe Root's message on player conduct has '100%' landed

England fast bowler Josh Tongue stated that captain Joe Root's message regarding off field behavior has been fully heeded by the squad. Root addressed the team before the second Test against Pakistan at Lord's after expressing frustration over late night drinking controversies involving players. Brydon Carse was removed from the squad for the second Test following a brief arrest during a night out in Derby on Saturday. The England and Wales Cricket Board referred the matter to the Cricket Regulator, which led to Carse's absence from the match.

Tongue, who was present during a previous nightclub incident in Wellington involving Harry Brook, said Root was honest and clear about the privilege of playing for England. He noted that the conversation was needed to ensure players act as good role models for children. While the center leaning source describes the situation as a string of controversies and stupid mistakes, the center left leaning source frames the conversation as a robust reset of England standards following months of repeated infringements and embarrassment.

Tongue also revealed that incoming red ball coach Stephen Fleming has been in contact with the players. Fleming messaged Tongue before and after the first day of the first Test, where England secured an innings victory over Pakistan at Headingley. Meanwhile, Pakistan's Babar Azam stated that his team's senior players must step up to reverse a run of five defeats in their last six Tests.