MANCHESTER — Rising fast bowler Sonny Baker celebrated his maiden England call-up in spectacular fashion, claiming a stunning hat-trick to propel Manchester Originals to a crucial 24-run victory over Northern Superchargers in The Hundred.
The 21-year-old, named in England’s squad for the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand just hours before the match, delivered a match-defining performance at Emirates Old Trafford. Baker’s triple strike in the 85th set of five balls dismantled the Superchargers’ middle order, turning the tide decisively in the Originals’ favor. "It’s been an unbelievable day," Baker said post-match. "To get the England call and then take a hat-trick—I’m pinching myself."
A Dream Day for Baker
Baker’s hat-trick—the sixth in men’s Hundred history—came at a critical juncture. With Superchargers needing 45 off 25 balls and well-placed at 95/3, the Devon-born quick removed Brydon Carse (caught at deep midwicket), Adam Hose (bowled), and Matthew Short (trapped lbw) in consecutive deliveries. The crowd erupted as Short’s review upheld the decision, sealing Baker’s place in the tournament’s folklore.
Originals captain Jos Buttler hailed the youngster’s composure: "Sonny’s been brilliant all season. To step up like that under pressure, especially after such big personal news, shows his character. He’s got a massive future."
Match Highlights
Earlier, Manchester posted a competitive 144/7, anchored by:
- Phil Salt’s explosive 38 (22 balls)
- Laurie Evans’ gritty 29 (24)
- Buttler’s 23 (19) before falling to Adil Rashid
Superchargers’ reply started strongly, with Finn Allen (42 off 26) and Tom Banton (31 off 22) putting on 68 for the first wicket. However, Baker’s heroics—combined with tight spells from Paul Walter (2/18) and Josh Little (1/20)—restricted them to 120/9.
Turning Point: The Hat-Trick Over
Baker’s decisive over unfolded as follows:
- Ball 1: Carse skies a slower ball to Walter at deep midwicket.
- Ball 2: Hose clean bowled by a searing yorker.
- Ball 3: Short misses a full delivery, struck plumb in front.
"I just backed my variations," Baker explained. "The yorker to Hose was the plan, and the lbw—I knew it was close. When the umpire raised his finger, I couldn’t believe it."
England Call-Up Adds to the Fairytale
Baker’s inclusion in England’s T20 squad marks a rapid rise. Having only made his professional debut in 2022, his 14 wickets at an economy of 7.2 in this year’s Hundred caught the selectors’ eye. National coach Matthew Mott noted: "Sonny’s pace and skill under pressure align perfectly with our attacking philosophy."
The victory lifts Manchester Originals to third in the standings, keeping their playoff hopes alive. For Northern Superchargers, a fourth straight loss leaves them rooted to the bottom. Captain Short admitted: "Baker’s over killed us. Credit to him—he’s a serious talent."
What’s Next?
Baker will join England’s squad next week, but not before Originals’ must-win clash against London Spirit on Thursday. With momentum and confidence sky-high, another match-winning display could cement his status as The Hundred’s breakout star.
"I’m just trying to enjoy every moment," Baker added. "Playing for England is a dream, but right now, I want to help Originals reach the eliminator."
As the Manchester crowd chanted his name post-match, one thing was clear: Sonny Baker’s fairytale summer is far from over.