Manchester Originals pacer Sonny Baker has seen his stock rise in the current 2025 Hundred thanks to impressive performances. The 22-year-old has been one of the Originals’ few bright spots in an otherwise dismal season thus far.
The team has only won one of their last four games, and they owe their lone victory to Baker. The young bowler had a fantastic session, giving up just 21 runs in 20 deliveries, which helped the Originals win by 10 runs while defending 163.
At an average of 23.50 and an economy of less than 8.50, he has taken four wickets in as many competition games. Baker brought the pacer into the spotlight among commentators by persistently troubling former Australian batter David Warner during his outstanding 71 in the Originals’ match against the London Spirit.
Although the Originals rely on Baker’s performance to make a last-ditch effort and advance to the knockout stages, it would be interesting to learn more about the young English seamer.
On that point, here are five intriguing facts about Sonny Baker, who is rising through the ranks thanks to his great performance in Hundred 2025.
1. Breakthrough in Australia sparks Ashes talk
Before making his first-class debut, Sonny Baker earned a spot in the England Lions squad to face Australia-A in Sydney earlier this year. The 22-year-old impressed with 3/60 in 18 overs, even unsettling David Warner. Former captain Michael Atherton suggested Baker could be a surprise Ashes pick, praising his pace and skiddy movement. His efforts earned him a development central contract in February.
2. Strong first-class debut season
In his maiden County Championship season with Hampshire, Baker took 19 wickets in six matches, including two five-wicket hauls. On debut, he removed Jonny Bairstow in both innings against Yorkshire. His final outing of the season saw him claim eight wickets, five of them in the first innings, against Worcestershire.
3. Praise from Phil Salt
England opener Phil Salt compared Baker’s swing and control to that of the legendary James Anderson during The Hundred. In that match, Baker troubled David Warner and Kane Williamson early on, earning Player of the Match honours.
4. Standout 2022 One Day Cup
Baker first grabbed attention in 2022 with Somerset in the One Day Cup, taking nine wickets in just three games. His highlight was a brilliant 6/46 against Durham, turning a likely 400-plus chase into a 57-run win. The performance fast-tracked his T20 debut in The Hundred.
5. Sporting roots
Before he started playing cricket, Sonny Baker had a family history of athletic involvement. In neighborhood football leagues, his father, Ian Baker, was a strong goalie. Due to the local sports culture and his upbringing in Torquay, Devon, Sonny Baker became passionate about cricket.
Prior to making his competitive cricket debut for Somerset in 2021, he first enrolled in their academy.
