Sonny Baker, making his Hampshire and County Championship debuts in the opening round of the 2025 competition, dismissed Yorkshire captain Jonny Bairstow twice to help put his side in a strong position at Southampton.
There was an element of fortune about the 22-year-old’s first dismissal of the England international, Bairstow caught at third man off a wide delivery. The eagle-eyed County Championship social media team pointed out that Bairstow, who had dispatched the previous delivery for four, was distracted by a bee momentarily before Baker’s delivery as well. However, the second demonstrated why Baker is so highly rated, piercing Bairstow’s defence to peg back middle stump. He had another wicket three balls later, George Hill also bowled.
Bairstow, who made 56, had put on a century stand with former England opener Adam Lyth, and the double-strike kept Hampshire in the ascendancy. Brad Wheal also took four wickets, and Yorkshire reached stumps on day two six down and leading by just 61.
Match 2, Hampshire vs Yorkshire
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Who is Sonny Baker?
Baker is highly rated by England, having been clocked at speeds in excess of 90mph, with highlights clips showing his ability to generate significant inswing. A mark of the regard in which he is held is that he made his first-class debut for England Lions, against Australia A in Sydney, under the watchful eye of coach Andrew Flintoff. England Lions were beaten by an innings, but Baker impressed, taking 3-60, and he has since been awarded an England development contract.
“It has been an absolute pleasure to see Sonny thrive over the winter," Flintoff said. “He and I are very different in character and personality, but it has been a delight to see the pride he takes in wearing the Three Lions, the energy he brings to every ball, and the theatre and magic he creates on the pitch.
“His professionalism and dedication to every aspect of his game are an example to all. Sonny has a bright future ahead, and we look forward to continuing to work with him and Hampshire over the coming years.”
The product of a strong Somerset pathway system, Baker found first-team opportunities hard to come by at Taunton despite his clear promise, with several established players above him in the pecking order. He moved from Somerset to Hampshire in the off-season in pursuit of more game time, and was rewarded by a County Championship debut at the first possible opportunity. He has repaid the faith in style.
Watch Sonny Baker dismiss Bairstow and Hill:
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