NEW DELHI: Trailing 0–2 in the five-match Ashes series against Australia, England rang in a change to their playing XI for the third Test in Adelaide starting Wednesday, hoping to keep the series alive.

Pace bowler Josh Tongue has been recalled in place of Gus Atkinson, while England have retained the same top seven and opted to leave a specialist spinner on the sidelines.

Atkinson struggled to make an impact in his two appearances this series, managing just three wickets at a costly average of 78.66 across 54 overs. He failed to pick up a wicket in the high-tempo opening Test in Perth and leaked runs at the Gabba, returning figures of 1 for 114 in Australia's first innings before claiming the only two wickets to fall during the hosts' successful chase on day four.

In contrast, England have turned to Tongue, the 28-year-old Nottinghamshire fast bowler who has claimed 31 wickets in just six Tests. Tongue previously featured in the 2023 Ashes, memorably taking five wickets in the Lord’s Test that became synonymous with the controversial Jonny Bairstow stumping.

Despite a career repeatedly interrupted by injury - including a serious nerve issue in his right shoulder that required multiple surgeries and Botox treatment - Tongue brings a different edge to England's attack. His skiddy pace, awkward release angle and ability to attack the stumps offer England a fresh threat as they look to revive their campaign.

England XI for third Test: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Will Jacks, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue