Worcestershire County Cricket Club on Thursday (May 2) announced the untimely passing of spinner Josh Baker, who was aged only 20 years old. The club, however, didn’t reveal the nature of death.
Baker became a professional cricketer at the age of 17 as he joined Worcestershire in 2021. The club described him as a “popular figure” within the squad.
“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,” Worcestershire said in a statement.
Ashley Giles, Worcestershire’s Chief Executive Officer, expressed his profound sadness, stating, “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.”
In 22 First-Class matches, Josh Baker picked up 43 wickets. He also took 24 wickets in 17 List A matches and three scalps in eight T20 games. Baker also has 411 runs in First-Class cricket, 100 runs in List A and 14 runs in T20s to his name.
His last competitive match was this same week as he returned with the figures of 3/66 while playing for Worcestershire 2nd XI against Somerset in a Championship match.
Members of the cricket fraternity was left deeply saddened after hearing this tragic news and offered their condolences to the Josh Baker family.
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