Cricket star Josh Baker dies aged 20 as Worcestershire pay tribute to young spin bowler
Josh Baker: Worcestershire have paid tribute to the young spinner who has died aged 20
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Worcestershire have announced the death of young spin bowler Josh Baker at the age of 20.
Baker, who made his first-class debut in July 2021, came through the academy at New Road and his club have paid a heartbreaking tribute.
He played for the club's second XI this week in a drawn match against Somerset, where he picked up three wickets.
Baker made two appearances for the first team in the County Championship last month, most recently appearing in the defeat to Durham in Kidderminster.
Josh Baker: The spinner made his first-class and List A debuts in 2021
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He played 22 first-class games in total, collecting 43 wickets with his left-arm spin.
Baker also played 25 one-day and T20 matches and was a travelling reserve for England under-19s for the 2022 World Cup.
Worcestershire released the sad news of Baker's passing on their website on Thursday.
A statement from the club reads: "Worcestershire County Cricket Club is heartbroken to announce the untimely passing of Josh Baker, who was aged only 20 years old.
"Josh turned professional with the Club in 2021 and quickly became a popular figure within the squad.
"More than his skills as a spin bowler, it was his vibrant spirit and infectious enthusiasm that endeared him to everyone he met.
"His warmth, kindness, and professionalism were remarkable, making him a true credit to his family and a loved member of our team.
"During this profoundly difficult time, the Club is dedicated to supporting Josh’s family, friends, and colleagues.
"We are united in our grief and committed to honouring his memory in a manner befitting the remarkable person he was.
"Plans to pay tribute to Josh will be made in consultation with his family and will remain private at this time.
"The Club, along with Josh’s family, requests the respect of privacy as we mourn this immense loss.
"No further comments will not be provided during this sensitive period."
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Josh Baker made two appearances for the Worcestershire first team last month
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Worcestershire CEO Ashley Giles, a former left-arm spinner himself, said: "The news of Josh’s passing has left us all devastated.
"Josh was much more than a teammate; he was an integral part of our cricket family.
"We will all miss him terribly. All our love and prayers go out to Josh’s family and friends."
The ECB posted a message on X following Baker's death.
Josh Baker came through the academy at Worcestershire and made his debut in 2021
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The official account wrote: "The ECB is desperately sad to learn of the passing of Josh Baker.
"This is devastating news. We extend our best wishes to Josh's family and friends, to everyone who knew and loved him, and to everyone at Worcestershire CCC."
Durham, the last team Baker faced in a first-class match, said: "Everyone at Durham Cricket are saddened to hear the passing of Josh Baker.
"Our thoughts are with Josh's family, friends and Worcestershire CCC at this extremely difficult time."