Cricket runs deep in the Tongue household, and for England fast bowler Josh Tongue, the sport isn’t just a career—it’s a family affair that spans generations. From his father’s coaching wisdom to his brother’s playing experience, Josh’s journey to international cricket has been shaped by a family that lives and breathes the game.
Josh Tongue Family Table
| Role | Name |
|---|---|
| Father | Phil Tongue |
| Mother | Name Undisclosed |
| Brother | Ryan Tongue |
| Family Friend | Tim Piper |
Who is Josh Tongue’s Father?
Josh Tongue’s father Phil was a coach and played at Redditch Cricket Club. Phil Tongue represents the backbone of Josh’s cricket education, combining his playing experience with coaching expertise to nurture his son’s talent from an early age.
The elder Tongue’s involvement at Redditch Cricket Club provided Josh with early exposure to organized cricket. Phil’s dual role as both father and coach created a unique dynamic where technical guidance merged seamlessly with parental support. This foundation proved crucial in Josh’s development, as he was constantly surrounded by cricket knowledge and strategic thinking.
Who is Josh Tongue’s Brother?
Ryan Tongue, Josh’s older brother, carved his own path in county cricket, representing both Herefordshire and Worcestershire during his playing career.
Related: Josh Tongue Biography
Who is Josh Tongue’s Mother?
While specific details about Josh Tongue’s mother aren’t widely publicized, the support system that enables a cricket family to function requires dedication from all members.
Family Friend – Tim Piper
The most remarkable story in Josh Tongue’s family circle involves Tim Piper, a family friend whose incredible faith in Josh’s potential has become cricket folklore. Tim Piper, who runs the Cricketers Arms in Redditch, bet £100 on Josh Tongue playing for England at odds of 500-1 when he was 11 years old.
The story becomes even more extraordinary when you consider Piper’s early recognition of Josh’s talent. He did want to place the bet on him to make it to England when Tongue was only six, but could not find a bookmaker willing to offer any odds. “There was this little kid who bowled leg-spin, googlies and top-spinners. It was like Shane Warne,” Piper told BBC Sport.
Piper is set for a huge payout after placing 100 pounds on him to play Test cricket for England when he was just 11 at odds of 500-1. The dedication to this belief is remarkable – “I’ve kept the bet slip in a cupboard all these years,” Piper revealed.
The £50,000 windfall that Piper received when Josh made his England debut against Ireland in June 2023 represents more than just a successful bet – it’s validation of the faith that cricket communities place in young talent. The current landlord of the Cricketers Arms pub in Redditch was a team-mate of Tongue’s father Phil at Redditch Cricket Club in the 1990s.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Josh Tongue’s father?
Josh Tongue’s father is Phil Tongue, who was a cricket coach and played at Redditch Cricket Club. Phil played a crucial role in Josh’s cricket development through his coaching expertise and playing experience.
Does Josh Tongue have any siblings in cricket?
Yes, Josh has an older brother named Ryan Tongue who played cricket for both Herefordshire and Worcestershire county teams.
Who is Tim Piper and how much did he win betting on Josh Tongue?
Tim Piper is a family friend who runs the Cricketers Arms pub in Redditch and played cricket with Josh’s father Phil. He won £50,000 after betting £100 at 500-1 odds that Josh would play Test cricket for England when Josh was just 11 years old.
How long did Tim Piper keep his bet slip before Josh’s England debut?
Tim Piper kept the bet slip in a cupboard for 14 years, from when Josh was 11 years old until his England debut at age 25 in 2023.