Fast bowler Josh Tongue has made it clear that England will not settle for a draw in their first Test against India at Headingley. With England starting the fifth day at 21-0, they need 350 more runs to achieve their target of 371. This chase, if successful, would mark England's second-highest successful pursuit in Test history and the second-best at Headingley.

Under the leadership of captain Ben Stokes, England has developed a reputation for their aversion to draws. Since Stokes took over as skipper three years ago, only one of England's 36 matches has ended in a draw, and that was due to rain interruptions during the third Ashes Test at Old Trafford in 2023.

The weather forecast in Leeds on Tuesday is mixed, potentially complicating England's run chase. However, Tongue remains resolute. When asked if there was any scenario where a draw would be a good result, Tongue responded, "No. Just go for the win. That's the clear message in the changing room."

England has a history of successful run chases, particularly under Stokes' captaincy. They famously chased down 378 to beat India at Edgbaston in 2022. Headingley, known for its extraordinary finishes, has also seen numerous successful chases, with six totals exceeding 250 being chased down, more than any other venue globally except for the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia.

In the past eight years, four of these chases have occurred at Headingley, including the Stokes-inspired chase of 359 to beat Australia in the 2019 Ashes. Tongue, in just his fourth Test, played a crucial role in keeping England's hopes alive by taking three wickets in four deliveries to dismiss India for 364 in their second innings.

Tongue, nicknamed 'The Mop' by his teammate Ben Duckett for his ability to clean up the lower order, ended with figures of 3-72 after also taking four wickets in the first innings. Reflecting on his performance, Tongue said, "I've done it twice now, so I might have to start calling myself that. Obviously, that's part of the game. I'm happy to contribute to the team by getting those wickets."

India's KL Rahul, who made a superb century on day four, echoed Tongue's sentiments, stating, "There's definitely going to be a result. That's what England have said very openly, and their style of cricket suggests that as well. It gives us a good opportunity to pick up 10 wickets."

As the match heads into its final day, England's aggressive approach and Tongue's impactful bowling have set the stage for a thrilling conclusion to this Test match.