Today marks a proud moment for Devon Cricket as former Torquay CC player Sonny Baker makes his England Test debut against New Zealand at The Kia Oval.

For everyone involved in cricket across Devon, Sonny’s selection is more than just a personal achievement. It is a great example of what can be achieved through dedication, hard work and the opportunities provided by the county’s player pathway.

Devon Beginnings

Sonny’s cricket journey started at Torquay & Kingskerswell CC (then Torquay CC), where his talent quickly became apparent. Like many young cricketers across the county, he developed his game through club cricket before progressing into the Devon Cricket Performance Pathway.

Representing Devon in County Age Group sides gave Sonny the chance to test himself against the best young players across the country, helping to lay the foundations for what is becoming a promising career.

Those who watched him as a youngster recognised a rare combination of pace, athleticism and competitive spirit. Even then, there was a sense that Sonny possessed something special.

"Sonny's story is an excellent example of what a talented, dedicated and hard-working young player in Devon can go on to achieve in the game," says Sandy Allen, Head of Men and Boys' Pathway at Devon Cricket. "Everyone here is immensely proud of Sonny's journey."

Progressing Through the Pathway

Through his performances for Devon, Sonny earned opportunities within the wider regional and county system, eventually joining Somerset’s academy structure.

Sonny went on to sign his first professional contract with Somerset in 2021, going on to make his England Under 19s debut later that year, and being selected for the 2022 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup.

His rise through the ranks was not without challenges. Injuries interrupted parts of his early career, having to pull out of the 2022 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup with a back injury, but his determination and resilience ensured he continued to develop as one of the most exciting young fast bowlers in the country.

Sonny went on to make his T20 debut for Southern Brave in The Hundred in 2022 and took 19 wickets in 11 One-Day Cup matches for Somerset before leaving the club at the end of 2024.

Making His Mark at Hampshire

A move to Hampshire in 2025 proved to be a significant step forward in Sonny's career.

At the Utilita Bowl he has flourished, becoming one of the quickest bowlers on the county circuit and consistently troubling batters with speeds approaching 90mph.

His performances in the Rothesay County Championship and across all formats caught the attention of England selectors and established him as one of the country's brightest fast-bowling prospects.

His impressive form earned international recognition, including white-ball appearances for England before being called into the Test squad earlier this summer.

The Ultimate Honour

Having been included in England's squad for the New Zealand series, Sonny has now been handed his first Test cap for the second Test at The Oval.

At just 23 years old, Sonny becomes the latest product of the Devon Cricket Performance Pathway to reach the highest level of the game.

His journey from Torquay CC, through the Performance Pathway, to Somerset, Hampshire and now the England Test team demonstrates the strength of player development within Devon and serves as an inspiration to young cricketers across the county.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Everyone at the Devon Cricket Foundation is immensely proud of Sonny's achievement.

As he walks out onto the field at The Oval wearing the Three Lions for the first time, the entire Devon cricket community will be cheering him on.