Worcestershire’s young spin bowler, Josh Baker, has passed away at the tender age of 20. He had recently played two County Championship matches, the last being against Durham in April. In his short career, Baker had already made a mark, debuting in first-class cricket in 2021 and playing a total of 47 matches across formats, claiming 70 wickets.
The news of his untimely demise has deeply saddened everyone associated with Worcestershire cricket, including chief executive Ashley Giles, who expressed, “The news of Josh’s passing has left us all devastated.” The circumstances surrounding his death have not been disclosed by the club. Baker, a left-arm spinner, showcased his talent even in his last appearance for the county second XI against Somerset, taking three wickets.
Watch Him Taking His Last 3 Wickets :
SHOCKING 😯
— SR ⁶⁹ (@ultimate__d) May 2, 2024
Worcestershire, England Cricket player just 20 year old Bowler Josh Baker passed away 💔
RIP Josh Baker pic.twitter.com/0AkEeLADE1 pic.twitter.com/M8Zi7RI3Z2
He was not just a teammate but an integral part of the cricket family, as described by former England spinner and coach Ashley Giles, who lamented, “Josh was much more than a team-mate; he was an integral part of our cricket family.” Having hailed from Redditch, Baker had risen through the ranks at New Road and had represented England at the under-19 level.
Baker’s Resilience Leads to Contract Renewal: More Than Cricket Talent, His Infectious Enthusiasm Remembered
Despite suffering a back injury in 2022, he signed a three-year contract with Worcestershire, contributing to their success in winning promotion from Championship Division Two. The club emphasized that beyond his cricketing skills, it was Baker’s vibrant spirit and infectious enthusiasm that endeared him to everyone.
Condolences poured in from various quarters, with Warwickshire expressing, “Our heartfelt condolences go to Josh’s family, friends and Worcestershire colleagues on hearing this tragic news.” Pakistan spinner Usama Mir, who was set to join Worcestershire for the T20 Blast, shared his grief, recalling Baker as “one of the nicest people you could meet. And a brilliant cricketer.”
The Professional Cricketers’ Association also expressed their sorrow, with chief executive Paul Lynch stating, “Everybody at the PCA is heartbroken to hear of Josh’s passing and we offer our sincere condolences to all his family, friends and teammates.” Worcestershire Cricket affirmed their commitment to fittingly honoring Baker’s memory, although plans for tributes will remain private for now.
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