LONDON — England's cricket fans have a new fast-bowling sensation to celebrate: Sonny Baker, the 20-year-old paceman who recently made headlines with a stunning hat-trick in The Hundred. But who is the man behind the headlines, and how has his unique approach to preparation—including bone broth diets and meticulous notebook routines—propelled him into England's squad?
From Devon to the National Stage
Born in Devon, Baker’s rise has been meteoric. After making his debut for Somerset in 2021, he quickly caught the eye of selectors with his raw pace and ability to swing the ball. His breakthrough moment came in The Hundred, where his hat-trick for Southern Brave against Welsh Fire cemented his reputation as one of England’s most exciting young talents. "I just tried to keep it simple—hit the stumps and let the ball do the work," Baker said after the match, downplaying his heroics.
The Baker Method: Bone Broth & Notebooks
What sets Baker apart isn’t just his skill but his unconventional preparation. A self-confessed "cricket nerd," he credits much of his success to two key habits: drinking bone broth daily and maintaining detailed notebooks on opponents. "I write everything down—how batters react to certain deliveries, where they like to score, even their body language under pressure," he revealed in a recent interview.
His dietary choice—bone broth—has raised eyebrows but is backed by science. Rich in collagen and amino acids, it’s known to aid recovery, a crucial factor for fast bowlers. "It’s not glamorous, but it works. My joints feel stronger, and I recover faster," Baker explained.
Key Elements of Baker’s Routine:
- Notebook Analysis: Detailed breakdowns of every batter he faces.
- Bone Broth Diet: Daily intake to reduce inflammation and speed recovery.
- Visualization: Mental rehearsals of bowling spells before matches.
- Yoga: Flexibility work to maintain bowling rhythm.
England Call-Up & Future Prospects
Baker’s performances earned him a call-up to England’s T20 squad for their series against New Zealand, a testament to his rapid development. Former England captain Michael Vaughan praised the selection, calling Baker "the kind of fearless, skilful bowler England need to build around for the next decade."
With the 2024 T20 World Cup on the horizon, Baker could play a pivotal role. His ability to bowl at the death—a skill honed through relentless practice—makes him a valuable asset. "I love the pressure moments. That’s when you find out what you’re made of," he said.
The Road Ahead: Challenges & Expectations
Despite the hype, Baker remains grounded. "I know I’ve got a long way to go. The real work starts now—facing world-class batters every week, adapting, and improving," he admitted. Injuries, a common hurdle for young quicks, are a concern, but his meticulous approach to recovery could prove decisive.
His Somerset coach, Jason Kerr, believes Baker’s mindset sets him apart. "Sonny doesn’t just bowl; he thinks. He’s always two steps ahead, and that’s rare for someone his age." If he stays fit and continues refining his craft, Baker could become a mainstay in England’s attack across formats.
Conclusion: A Star in the Making
Sonny Baker’s journey from Devon club cricket to England’s squad is a testament to his dedication and innovative methods. Whether it’s his bone broth habit or his obsessive note-taking, his approach is clearly paying off. As he steps onto the international stage, one thing is certain: England may have found their next bowling superstar.
For now, Baker remains focused on the basics. "I’ll keep doing what got me here—preparing well, staying disciplined, and enjoying every moment," he said. If his early performances are any indication, those moments could soon include World Cup glory.