England fast bowler Josh Tongue and seamer Gus Atkinson, both of whom are a part of the Manchester Super Giants during The Hundred 2026 campaign, recently visited the Carrington training ground. The players were given a behind-the-scenes look at United’s training base. The English bowler expressed excitement over getting the call to visit the Carrington Ground and said, “Yeah it's pretty surreal. As soon as the message came that I can come down to Carrington, come to the practise ground, have a look at them play”.
Tongue, a United supporter, appeared particularly impressed by the facilities, saying, “Obviously see the facilities, as well.” He also joked about the cricketing potential of one of United’s players, adding, “I reckon he'd be able to hit a few sixes for us!” Gus Atkinson however has been a neutral viewer and when asked about shifting his loyalty to the United he joked.
He said, “No, I'm a London boy through and through. I don't think I'll be supporting Manchester United. But yeah, it's definitely cool meeting everyone and seeing behind the scenes stuff. And I'll be keeping an eye on Manchester United this season.” The light-hearted visit came during a busy Hundred campaign for the England duo. Tongue was retained by Manchester Super Giants for £200,000 at the 2026 Hundred auction, while Atkinson was signed for £70,000.
The fast-bowling pair have also contributed with the ball for the Manchester-based side. In their most recent match against Southern Brave on August 8, Atkinson returned impressive figures of 2/19 from 20 balls, while Tongue claimed 1/36, helping Super Giants secure a 10-run victory.
Manchester Super Giants eye knockout spot after strong recovery in The Hundred
Manchester Super Giants have put themselves in a strong position to reach the knockout stages of The Hundred 2026 after an encouraging campaign that has combined explosive batting with timely bowling performances. After seven group matches, the Super Giants sit third with 16 points, having won four and lost three. Their +0.495 net run rate is also the best among the three teams currently tied on 16 points, putting them ahead of MI London and Welsh Fire.
They made an impressive start by beating London Spirit by seven runs at Lord’s, with Tim Seifert's 67 off 45 balls proving decisive. They then produced one of their most dominant performances against Birmingham Phoenix, posting 187/5 before bowling them out for just 100, winning by 87 runs. Jos Buttler starred with a blistering 90 off 50 balls, including seven fours and five sixes. The campaign did suffer setbacks, including an eight-wicket defeat to SunRisers Leeds after scoring 181/3. However, the Super Giants responded by beating Welsh Fire and then Southern Brave. Against Brave, they defended 149/8, winning by 10 runs, with Gus Atkinson taking 2/19 and Josh Tongue 1/36.
