Sonny Baker Set for England Test Debut with Passionate Style

Tuesday, June 16, 2026

England will field three Test debutants—Sonny Baker, Jordan Cox, and potentially James Rew—in their Second Test against New Zealand at The Oval, following squad changes linked to Ben Stokes' absence. This influx of fresh talent, alongside Joe Root’s return as interim captain, aims to inject energy and leadership into the side as they seek to gain an advantage in the series.

England's cricket team is set to introduce multiple debutants for the Second Test against New Zealand at The Oval, following the ongoing repercussions of the Ben Stokes situation. Fast bowler Sonny Baker, 23, is among the newcomers, expected to bring an energetic and passionate approach to the side. Alongside Baker, Essex batsman Jordan Cox will make his maiden Test appearance, filling the No. 7 batting position previously held by Stokes. Meanwhile, wicketkeeper James Rew could also debut if Jamie Smith, who is an expectant father, is unavailable.

This marks the first time since 2017 that England have fielded three Test debutants in a match, the previous occasion involving Dawid Malan, Tom Westley, and Toby Roland-Jones against South Africa. Additional changes for the match at The Oval include Jofra Archer’s return to the squad, replacing Gus Atkinson, who has been dropped. Matt Fisher is also brought in for the injured Ollie Robinson; Fisher’s only prior Test appearance was in 2022 against the West Indies in Barbados.

Joe Root will serve as England’s interim captain in this fixture, more than four years after he stepped down from the permanent captaincy role. Despite his return to leadership duties, Root is expected to rely heavily on vice-captain Harry Brook for tactical support. Head coach Brendon McCullum highlighted the strong leadership dynamic between Root and Brook, describing Brook as possessing one of the most astute tactical minds in the game and emphasizing the complementary relationship between the two.

On Baker, who represents Hampshire, McCullum expressed optimism about the bowler’s impact, noting his resemblance to Mark Wood in style—characterized by pace, swing, and lively celebrations. “If Sonny can claim a wicket early, the crowd will embrace his enthusiasm,” McCullum said, emphasizing Baker’s skills and genuine passion for cricket. Baker previously appeared in two white-ball internationals last year but struggled to make a significant impact, conceding 128 runs without taking a wicket in 11 overs.

Jordan Cox had been slated to debut in New Zealand in late 2024 as a temporary replacement for Smith during paternity leave but was sidelined by a broken thumb. However, Cox’s recent form has been compelling, including a standout unbeaten double century against Leicestershire, where he scored at a strike rate exceeding one run per ball. McCullum acknowledged that this performance strongly supported Cox’s inclusion in the Test side.

The full England playing XI for the match includes: Zak Crawley, Tom Westley, Ollie Pope, Joe Root (captain), Harry Brook, Jamie Smith or James Rew (wicketkeeper), Jordan Cox, Jofra Archer, Rehan Ahmed, Matt Fisher, and Sonny Baker. England will look to leverage the fresh energy of its debutants combined with experienced players as they aim to build momentum in this series against a competitive New Zealand side.