Sonny Baker Strengthens England’s Pace Attack with Anticipated Test Debut

Sonny Baker, the Hampshire pace bowler, is set to make his Test debut for England against New Zealand at The Oval on Wednesday. This opportunity arises following injuries and suspensions within the England squad, notably the knee injury to Ollie Robinson and the suspension of Gus Atkinson. Baker’s inclusion highlights the ongoing evolution of England’s pace attack as they seek to fill the void left by veteran bowlers.

Baker’s Journey in International Cricket

Baker’s international experience has been brief but eventful. In his sole One Day International (ODI) appearance, he recorded figures of 0-76 against South Africa, marking the most expensive debut for an England bowler. Despite this setback, Baker remains optimistic, noting that he was targeted in a match where England struggled, bowled out for just 131 runs. His T20 debut against Ireland was equally challenging, conceding 52 runs in four overs. Reflecting on these experiences, Baker acknowledges that he did not perform at his best during these outings.

Baker’s younger brother, Blaise, pointed out that he seemed out of character during the T20 match. Baker described himself as a “carry-on merchant,” someone who thrives on the energy of the game. He emphasized the importance of being authentic and enjoying the moment, stating that he intends to embrace his natural style if given another chance.

The Current State of England’s Pace Attack

Baker’s rise comes at a crucial time for England’s bowling lineup, which has seen significant changes in recent years. The departures of Stuart Broad, James Anderson, Chris Woakes, and likely Mark Wood have left a considerable gap, with a combined total of 1,619 Test wickets to replace. The pace-bowling department is further strained by Brydon Carse’s ongoing recovery from injury and Matthew Potts’ recent struggles.

Baker’s performances have stood out, particularly his ability to generate extra pace on early-season pitches. His recent duel with James Rew in a match between Somerset and Hampshire showcased his potential as a future asset for England.

Technical Development and Fast Bowling Insights

Baker has noted an increase in his pace this season, clocking speeds of up to 92 mph. He attributes this improvement to a more aggressive running style and maintaining momentum through his delivery. He expressed that last season, he often operated at a “cruise control” pace, which affected his control and effectiveness. This year, he feels more confident and capable of delivering quicker, more impactful deliveries.

Baker admires South African fast bowler Dale Steyn, referring to him as “the king of going up and down the gears.” He appreciates the tactical nuances of fast bowling, emphasizing the importance of adapting to different match situations.

Baker’s Personal Approach to Cricket

Baker’s enthusiasm for fast bowling is evident in his approach to the game. He believes that the excitement of cricket lies in the spectacle of fast bowlers and big hitters. He recalled the thrill of watching Jofra Archer during the 2019 Ashes series, noting that such performances inspire young players to emulate their heroes.

His family background has played a significant role in shaping his outlook. His father, Ian, was a club cricketer and semi-professional goalkeeper, while his brother Blaise is also pursuing a career in fast bowling.

To maintain his physical condition, Baker has adopted unconventional methods, such as drinking bone broth to prevent stress fractures. He described the labor-intensive process of making bone broth, which often proved challenging to sustain. Fortunately, a bone broth company reached out to him after learning about his dietary choices, providing him with a steady supply.

Looking Ahead

Baker’s phone battery died during a recent video call, a fitting metaphor for the interruptions he has faced in his early career. He quickly found a charger and resumed the conversation, reflecting his determination to overcome obstacles. With only 13 first-class matches under his belt, including three consecutive games at the start of this season, Baker’s journey is just beginning.

As a centrally contracted player, his workload will be managed by the England team, indicating their investment in his long-term potential. Baker expressed confidence in his development, stating that he has improved significantly as a bowler compared to last year.

Source: www.bbc.com

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Published on 2026-06-16 19:17:00 • By the Editorial Desk