Josh Baker, Worcestershire spinner, dies on the age of 20

Baker, who signed his first contract with the membership on the age of 17 in 2021, claimed 43 wickets in 22 top quality fits, and an extra 27 in 25 white-ball appearances.

He was once additionally a burgeoning allrounder, as demonstrated through two half-centuries together with a career-best 75 in opposition to Gloucestershire in July 2023. Later that very same season, whilst batting in opposition to Yorkshire at Headingley in Worcestershire’s ultimate fit, he scored the all-important run that secured a 2nd batting level and the membership’s promotion to the highest flight, prompting celebrations at the guests’ balcony.

“The inside track of Josh’s passing has left us all devastated,” Ashley Giles, Worcestershire’s leader government, stated. “Josh was once a lot more than a teammate; he was once an integral a part of our cricket circle of relatives. We will be able to all leave out him extraordinarily. All our love and prayers cross out to Josh’s friends and family.”

Baker’s maximum notable second got here in opposition to Durham at New Street in Might 2022, when – as an 18-year-old in his 9th top quality fit – he got here up in opposition to Ben Stokes, newly unveiled as England captain, and in a temper to supply a observation innings.

Baker was once duly struck for 34 in an over – 5 sixes and a one-bounce 4 – however after completing on 161 from 88 balls, Stokes sought Baker out on WhatsApp, sending a message imploring him to not “let as of late outline the remainder of your season”.

“You have got severe attainable and [I] assume you’ll be able to cross some distance,” Stokes added. “Maximum essential opinion is from the men to your changing-room and they’re going to all the time have your again. This coming from anyone who were given meeeeeeeelted in a T20 Global Cup ultimate.”

A observation from Worcestershire recalled Baker’s recognition throughout the squad. “Greater than his talents as a spin bowler, it was once his colourful spirit and infectious enthusiasm that endeared him to everybody he met. His heat, kindness, and professionalism have been exceptional, making him a real credit score to his circle of relatives and a beloved member of our crew.

“Throughout this profoundly tough time, the membership is devoted to supporting Josh’s circle of relatives, buddies, and associates. We’re united in our grief and dedicated to honouring his reminiscence in a way befitting the exceptional individual he was once.

“Plans to pay tribute to Josh can be made in session along with his circle of relatives and can stay non-public right now. The membership, together with Josh’s circle of relatives, requests the honour of privateness as we mourn this immense loss. No additional feedback is probably not equipped throughout this delicate length.

Rob Lynch, the executive government of the Skilled Cricketers’ Affiliation added: “Everyone on the PCA is heartbroken to listen to of Josh’s passing and we provide our trustworthy condolences to all his circle of relatives, buddies and teammates.

“Josh was once a cricketer along with his complete profession and existence forward of him and this information is not possible to realize.

“The PCA and the Skilled Cricketers’ Agree with are operating to make stronger Josh’s circle of relatives, his teammates and all PCA contributors who’re affected.

“Leisure in peace, Josh.”