England is still working to develop the next generation of fast bowlers. Rising talent Sonny Baker will make his international debut in the first One Day International (ODI) against South Africa on Tuesday. The Hampshire pacer is in the starting XI for the match, which means he will be playing for England under Harry Brook’s captaincy.
Baker was chosen because he has done so well in domestic cricket. The young bowler has always been a star for his county, the England Lions squad, and most recently for the Manchester Originals in The Hundred. His selection for the national team shows how serious England is about finding and developing young talent for a busy international schedule that includes the T20 World Cup next year and the World Cup in 2027. Baker will join an accomplished bowling attack that includes Jofra Archer, Brydon Carse, and veteran spinner Adil Rashid, who will be playing at home.
The batting order for the first game of the series likewise includes a mix of well-known players and up-and-coming stars. Jamie Smith, Ben Duckett, and Joe Root will be the main players at the top of the order. Harry Brook, the captain, and Jos Buttler, the wicketkeeper, will be the main players in the middle order. All-rounders Jacob Bethel and Will Jacks are important to the team’s balance since they give England alternatives with both bat and ball.
Sonny Baker has worked hard for years to get to this point, and now it’s finally here. He was once a highly-touted prospect at the age-group level, and now he gets a chance to show himself on the largest platform. His journey shows how England is putting money into young talent on purpose. This is a plan to make sure there are always good players available for years to come.
As England gets ready to play a tough South African team in what is sure to be a contested series, all eyes will be on Baker to see if he can carry over his great success at home to the international stage.
From September 2 to September 14, England and South Africa will play three ODIs and three T20Is.