Brook Supports Baker After Criticizing His ODI Debut

Brook Supports Baker After Criticizing His ODI Debut

Sonny Baker's unwanted debut record after Markaram's aggressive batting against the debutant. Baker conceded 76 runs in 7 overs with an economy rate of 10.85.

England’s young fast bowler Sonny Baker had a tough debut in the first ODI against South Africa at Headingley. He gave away 76 runs in seven overs without taking a wicket the most runs ever conceded by an England bowler on debut. His economy rate of 10.85 was also the second-worst for any debutant who bowled at least six overs.

The day started on a high for Baker. In front of his family, he received his England cap from Jos Buttler, who also went to King’s College, Taunton. But things went downhill quickly. England were bowled out for just 131 runs in under 25 overs, and Baker was dismissed for a first-ball duck by Keshav Maharaj.

Baker was then asked to bowl the first over of South Africa’s chase. He had looked confident coming into the match after good performances in The Hundred, but Aiden Markram had other plans. Markram smashed three boundaries in Baker’s first five balls and scored 56 runs off Baker’s first four overs. He reached his fifty in just 23 balls.

England captain Harry Brook admitted it wasn’t the best situation for Baker, saying, “It’s not ideal to defend just 130 runs.” Brook also said the team had no excuses for their poor batting and promised that everyone would support Baker. “We’re a close group. We’re all mates and spend time together off the field too,” he said. “He had a tough day, but he kept trying, kept running in, and gave it his all. That’s what we ask from every bowler.”

With the match almost out of reach after South Africa’s explosive start, England used the rest of the game as a practice session. Brook gave Baker another chance to bowl in the 12th over. He started well, giving away just two runs in his fifth over, but Markram and Ryan Rickelton kept attacking and built a 121-run opening stand in just 18 overs.

Brook said he was just trying to help Baker get a wicket. “We didn’t start well with the ball, and after their strong start, we knew we weren’t going to win. So we focused on helping the bowlers work on their skills and get some confidence.”

He also praised Markram’s aggressive batting, saying it was the perfect way to chase a low score during the powerplay. “Baker missed his line a few times, but Markram played some brilliant shots. Credit to him.”

Markram finished with 86 runs from 55 balls before getting out to Adil Rashid. After the match, Markram said he hadn’t planned to go after Baker but just reacted to what he saw. “I’ve heard good things about him. I just tried to watch the ball and play what was in front of me. If he gets his rhythm right, he’ll be a really good bowler.”