Cricket star Josh Baker dies aged just 20 as Worcestershire pay heartbreaking tribute

Worcestershire cricketer Josh Baker has died aged just 20.

Baker, a left-arm spinner, made his first-class debut for Worcestershire in July 2021 having come through the academy at his local county. He was twice capped by England at Under-19 level and was a travelling reserve for his country's U19s World Cup squad in 2022.

The youngster was in action for his county's second team the day prior to the club announcing his death, taking three wickets.

He had featured in 20 first-class matches up until the end of last season, taking 39 wickets. He also contributed two half-centuries with the bat. Across all three formats, he took an impressive 70 wickets in his tragically short career, and scored 525 runs.

In a statement, his county said: "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."

Former England spinner Ashley Giles, now Worcestershire's CEO, 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.”

Rob Lynch, the CEO if the Professional Cricketers' Association, added: "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.

“Josh was a cricketer with his full career and life ahead of him and this news is impossible to comprehend. The PCA and the Professional Cricketers’ Trust are working to support Josh’s family, his teammates and all PCA members who are affected.

“Rest in peace, Josh.”