Cricket star Josh Baker dies aged 20 as Worcestershire pay tribute to young spin bowler

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.

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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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.

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."