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England's New Pace Trio: Robinson, Atkinson and Tongue Roles Defined

BBC Sport •
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Former England bowler Steven Finn breaks down how Ollie Robinson, Gus Atkinson and Josh Tongue will form the new pace attack for the summer's Tests against New Zealand and Pakistan. England's Ashes defeat has forced a reshuffle in their bowling ranks, with Robinson recalled as attack leader after over two years out of the side.

Robinson, 32, averages 22.92 in Test cricket and now carries the responsibility of setting the tone for England's bowlers. Atkinson serves as the supporting actor - a controlled, tall bowler whose scrambled-seam delivery complements the attack well. Tongue occupies the X-factor role after establishing himself during the Australian tour.

The three roles exist alongside captain Ben Stokes in what Finn describes as the 'engine room' of England's Test team. This represents the first home summer since 2007 without Anderson, Broad and Woakes - a combined 1,619 Test wickets of experience to replace.

Notable absentees include Brydon Carse, who topped England's Ashes wicket charts, and Jofra Archer, sidelined by IPL commitments. The new trio must deliver the standards needed to restore England's Test winning form.