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Baker's England Test start hinges on Lord's weather

6/2/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Sonny Baker will start for England in the first Test at Lord’s on Thursday, but his inclusion depends on the weather.
Coach Brendon McCullum said the final XI will be chosen on the forecast, favouring bowlers who can use movement or extra pace if it gets hotter.
Shoaib Bashir was named England’s frontline spinner while Jacob Bethell is fit after a finger injury and Gus Atkinson may be omitted.

History

Historical Context

In the 1932-33 Ashes, captain Douglas Jardine ordered fast-leg-theory (body-line) bowling to curb Don Bradman, leading England to win the series 4-1 amid diplomatic tension. The episode showed how the tactic shaped bowler selection, a lesson echoed today as England coach Brendon McCullum weighs Sonny Baker’s inclusion for the next future Test.

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Story summary

Sonny Baker will start for England in the first Test at Lord’s on Thursday, but his inclusion depends on the weather.
Coach Brendon McCullum said the final XI will be chosen on the forecast, favouring bowlers who can use movement or extra pace if it gets hotter.
Shoaib Bashir was named England’s frontline spinner while Jacob Bethell is fit after a finger injury and Gus Atkinson may be omitted.

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