Worcestershire spinner Josh Baker died at the age of 20, the club confirmed the tragic news in a statement. Though the board have confirmed his death news, they still have not revealed the cause of this tragic incident.
Josh Baker seems not to have a serious illness moreover, he was seen in action a day before the incident. He took 3 wickets for a second XI of Worcestershire against Somerset in Bromsgrove.
He made his first-class debut on 11 July 2021, for Worcestershire in the 2021 County Championship, after signing a rookie contract with the club the previous day. He made his List A debut on 25 July 2021, for Worcestershire in the 2021 Royal London One-Day Cup.
The unexpected news shocked every cricket fan and cricketer. The club issued a statement claiming that they will pay tribute to the late left-arm spinner and requested privacy for the family.
“Josh was much more than a team-mate; 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 former England spinner 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”, the County club said in a statement.
In his tribute, the Professional Cricketers’ Association CEO Paul Lynch said: “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 team-mates and all PCA members who are affected.”
Josh played 22 First class matches and scored 411 runs and bagged 43 wickets. In 17 List A games, he bagged 24 wickets and scored 100 runs.
🌀 Josh Baker has three wickets for the seconds today in their match against Somerset.
Follow ➡️ https://t.co/NEBX7AV4EM pic.twitter.com/zGWvxxzDjW
— Worcestershire CCC (@WorcsCCC) May 1, 2024
