England consider handing Test debut to fast bowler in first red-ball match since Ashes disaster

England are contemplating a Test debut for promising fast bowler Sonny Baker at Lord’s, as the national side prepares for their first red-ball outing since their Ashes debacle concluded almost five months ago.

Head coach Brendon McCullum has indicated that the 23-year-old is firmly in contention for a spot in Thursday’s series opener against New Zealand.

With Josh Tongue and the returning Ollie Robinson seemingly assured of two seam bowling positions, the final pace slot appears to be a direct contest between Baker and Gus Atkinson.

Atkinson boasts an impressive record at the home of cricket, having claimed 19 wickets at an average of just 10.94 in his two previous appearances, alongside a century against Sri Lanka. However, Baker’s superior pace has brought him squarely into the selection discussion.

The team is already set to blood opener Emilio Gay for his debut, and Baker’s claims are being carefully considered as selectors assess a mixed weather forecast, which could sway them towards a more explosive attack.

McCullum spoke enthusiastically about Baker’s potential, stating: "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 elaborated on Baker’s attributes: "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, hinges on 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."

Baker’s potential Test bow would mark a significant turnaround after challenging white-ball debuts.

He was hit for 76 runs off seven overs in his sole One Day International, with South Africa’s Aiden Markram inflicting the damage at Headingley, and conceded 52 runs from four overs against Ireland in his only T20 international at Malahide. He is yet to claim an international wicket.

Despite these initial setbacks, Baker has impressed with his 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 affirmed.

"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."

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