England Considers Test Debut for Sonny Baker at Lord’s
England is considering a Test debut for promising fast bowler Sonny Baker at Lord’s as the national team prepares for their first red-ball match since the Ashes series ended almost five months ago. Head coach Brendon McCullum has confirmed that the 23-year-old is in strong contention for a spot in Thursday’s series opener against New Zealand.
With Josh Tongue and the returning Ollie Robinson seemingly set to occupy two of the seam bowling positions, the final pace slot is up for grabs between Baker and Gus Atkinson. Atkinson has an impressive record at the home of cricket, having taken 19 wickets at an average of just 10.94 in his two previous appearances, along with a century against Sri Lanka. However, Baker’s superior pace has made him a serious contender for the position.
The team is also set to welcome opener Emilio Gay for his debut, and Baker’s inclusion is being carefully evaluated as selectors consider the mixed weather forecast, which could influence their decision towards a more aggressive attack.
McCullum spoke positively about Baker’s potential, saying: “He’s quick. I think he’s going to be a cricketer that the country really gets behind. You can see he charges in and leaves everything out there. Some guys have a bit more of a rhythmical component to their style.”
“I think Sonny is full noise. He loves the game immensely. I am not saying the others don’t, but he’s got a real deep passion for it and he’s exciting.”
The coach further highlighted Baker’s skills: “He swings the ball both ways. He hits probably a slightly fuller length and he’s obviously got the ability to touch 90 miles an hour and he’s got a skiddy bouncer. So he’s an exciting proposition and, if it’s not in this Test, his time will come. If it is this Test, I’d expect him to do a good job.”
The final decision, McCullum suggested, depends on the conditions: “We’ll just work out whether we want that extra air speed, if all of a sudden it becomes 35 degrees and flattens out, or if we stick to what’s tried and tested at Lord’s and remain with the type of bowlers that will extract some movement with the overhead conditions.”
A Promising Turnaround
Baker’s potential Test debut would mark a significant turnaround after a challenging start to his international career. He was hit for 76 runs off seven overs in his only One Day International, with South Africa’s Aiden Markram taking advantage at Headingley, and conceded 52 runs from four overs against Ireland in his only T20 international at Malahide. He has yet to take an international wicket.
Despite these early setbacks, Baker has shown great attitude and a strong start to the county season with Hampshire, earning McCullum’s full confidence. “He’s one of those customers that he learns from tough experiences. I think it strengthened him to be honest,” McCullum said.
“We certainly don’t judge it from that point of view. I think it was a nice lesson for Sonny and I feel like he’s come back at a better, stronger, and a more complete cricketer.”
