Baker eager to Bounce Back as England Face Ireland
DUBLIN – Fast bowler Sonny Baker is hoping for a swift return to action and a chance to put a challenging England debut behind him when the team faces Ireland in a T20 match in Dublin on Sunday. Baker endured a difficult introduction to international cricket, conceding 76 runs in seven overs – including 14 boundaries - during England’s recent one-day international defeat against South Africa at Headingley.
The 22-year-old was slated to feature in the second T20 against Ireland on Friday in Malahide, but the match was washed out due to rain.Despite the setback, Baker has been told he is in contention for a place in the final T20 on Sunday, offering him an immediate opportunity to learn from his experience and demonstrate his potential. This match is crucial for Baker as he seeks to establish himself within the England setup and build on his promising career.
“From a figures point of view, it was obviously not exactly how I’d planned my debut going, but not all good experiences are enjoyable experiences,” Baker said.He acknowledged a notably punishing shot from Aiden Markram, but maintained a positive outlook. “At the time I was thinking,’15 an over for my first three or four overs is not what I had in mind!’ But in the long run,it’ll be a good thing for me.”
baker reflected on a specific delivery that was dispatched for six, conceding that good batsmen are entitled to play good shots. “There was a ball at 89mph,a little bit above top of leg stump,and he hit me over square leg for six. I was like ‘OK,fair enough’. Batters are allowed to play good shots.”
Despite the disappointment of the washed-out match, Baker remains optimistic. “I’m desperate to get out there again. That’s not how you want yoru first game to go but I’ve had a bit of time to reflect and bounced back fairly speedy,” he stated. “I’m just hoping Sunday is dry.”
