Tongue, who was set to make his international debut in the series, has suffered a thigh strain. He will be replaced by Chris Jordan, who has been recalled to the England squad for the first time since 2021.
Tongue’s injury is a blow to England, who are already without another uncapped quick, John Turner, who has also been ruled out of the series with a hamstring injury.
England will now be without two of their most promising young fast bowlers for the series. However, Jordan’s return is a boost to the side, as he is a proven performer in T20 cricket.
England will play four T20Is against New Zealand, starting on Wednesday at Riverside Ground, Chester-le-Street.
