England white-ball skipper Harry Brook has thrown his support behind Sonny Baker following the latter’s forgettable debut in the first ODI of the three-match series against South Africa at Headingley.
Defending a total of 132, Brook handed the new ball to the debutant, who was immediately put under pressure by Aiden Markram, the top scorer in the match with 88. Chosen ahead of Saqib Mahmood and Jamie Overton, the 23-year-old pacer finished with figures of 0 for 76 in seven overs- the worst bowling performance by an Englishman on ODI debut. Despite a nightmare start to his international career, Baker will continue to be backed by his captain and teammates.
“It’s probably not the ideal start, having to defend 130,” Brook admitted at the post-match presentation. “Everybody will get behind him. That’s the nature of this group. We’re such a tight-knit unit. We’re all good mates and spend a lot of time together away from the game as well. He’s had a tough day, but the way he just kept on cracking on and digging deep, continuing to run in and try to take wickets for us, even after taking a bit of tap, was awesome to see. And that’s exactly what we ask of every bowler.”
Batting first, England collapsed from 82 for 2 to 131 all out. South Africa went on to complete the run chase in just 20.5 overs, taking a 1–0 lead in the series.
The second ODI will be played at Lord’s Cricket Ground on 4 September.
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