The two bowlers played a key role in dismissing Pakistan for 171 on the opening day of the first Test at Headingley, taking five wickets each to share all 10 Pakistani wickets.
According to reports, after Pakistan’s innings ended, Tongue suggested that since both bowlers had taken five wickets apiece, they should divide the match ball equally. Robinson agreed, and they asked the ground staff to cut the ball in half.
The ground staff later split the ball into two pieces and handed one half to each bowler, giving both a unique souvenir to remember their combined 10-wicket haul.
Robinson reportedly welcomed the unusual memento, saying that receiving half a cricket ball was certainly not an everyday occurrence and that the keepsake would remain a memorable part of their achievement.