Hampshire fast bowler Sonny Baker is set to make his international debut when England face South Africa in the first ODI at Headingley on Tuesday.
The 22-year-old has played only 11 List A matches but impressed during The Hundred, claiming nine wickets in seven games for Manchester Originals. Known for his pace, which can reach 90mph (145kph), Baker also shone on the Lions’ tour last winter and earned an England development contract earlier this year.
He will spearhead the pace attack alongside Jofra Archer, who returns to ODIs for the first time since the Champions Trophy, and Brydon Carse. Harry Brook will captain the side in just his second series as skipper, while Jamie Smith and Ben Duckett continue their opening partnership.
Brook praised Baker’s rapid rise, highlighting his performances against some of the world’s best in The Hundred:
“He’s been awesome in the Hundred,” Brook said. “We’ve seen him bowl at some of the best batters in the world – Williamson, Warner, Smith, Bairstow – and he had them on toast. He bowls with high pace, swings it both ways, and has great death-bowling skills. To have him opening tomorrow is awesome.”
Brook also suggested that Baker could push for a future Ashes spot, saying:
“I don’t pick the red-ball side, but he’s done really well this summer. He’s quick, skilful, and looks like he has a lot about him.”
On the same day, Jamie Overton announced he will no longer play red-ball cricket, further fueling speculation about Baker’s long-term potential.
England XI for 1st ODI vs South Africa: Jamie Smith, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Harry Brook (capt), Jos Buttler (wk), Jacob Bethell, Will Jacks, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Sonny Baker.