- Josh Baker, a 20-year-old spin bowler, passed away, leaving a significant void in the cricketing community.
- Baker had a promising career, making 22 first-class appearances, taking 43 wickets, and representing England under-19 level.
- The WCCC, PCA, and ECB expressed deep sorrow and condolences, highlighting Baker’s vibrant spirit, professionalism, and potential.
- Plans to pay tribute to Baker are in consultation with his family, reflecting the cricketing community’s support for his family and friends.
Newsypeople- Worcestershire County Cricket Club is mourning the loss of promising young cricketer Josh Baker, who tragically passed away at the age of 20. Baker, a left-arm spinner and lower-order batter, had made 47 appearances for Worcestershire since turning professional in 2021, including two Vitality County Championship matches this season.
His last appearance was for Worcestershire’s second XI, where he took 3-66 from 20 overs against Somerset, helping dismiss them for 246 in a drawn match.
Worcestershire County Cricket Club is heartbroken to announce the untimely passing of Josh Baker, who was aged only 20 years old.
— Worcestershire CCC (@WorcsCCC) May 2, 2024
The love and prayers of everyone at the Club go out to Josh’s family and friends at this time.
➡️ https://t.co/p5C9G0apV0 pic.twitter.com/DNNOnG4Gy7
Baker’s death has left the cricketing community in shock, with Worcestershire expressing their deep sadness and dedication to supporting Baker’s family, friends, and colleagues. The club has emphasized the importance of honoring Baker’s memory and highlighted his vibrant spirit, infectious enthusiasm, warmth, kindness, and professionalism, which endeared him to everyone he met.
English cricket, including the Professional Cricketers’ Association (PCA) and the Professional Cricketers’ Trust, is also paying tribute to Baker, acknowledging his potential and the impact he had on the game. The PCA and the Professional Cricketers’ Trust are working to support Baker’s family, teammates, and all PCA members who are affected by his passing.
Worcestershire’s next scheduled match in the Vitality County Championship is on May 10, against Kent. In the wake of Baker’s death, players are expected to wear black armbands in his memory.
Baker’s career was marked by his impressive performances, including taking 43 wickets in 22 first-class appearances, playing 17 List A games, and eight T20s. He was also a travelling reserve for England at the Under-19 World Cup in 2022. His talent and potential were recognized by former England spinner Ashley Giles, who now serves as Worcestershire’s chief executive, describing Baker as “an integral part of our cricket family”.
The circumstances surrounding Baker’s death remain undisclosed, with the club requesting privacy for his family. An inquest into the circumstances of his death will take place, adding to the ongoing grief and shock felt by the cricketing community.
