Young spin bowler dies suddenly aged just 20
Worcestershire spinner Josh Baker has died at the age of 20, the club have announced. The Pears said they were “devastated” by the loss of a young player who has played two Vitality County Championship matches this season.
No further details were shared, with an appeal for privacy for Baker’s family. A statement read: “Worcestershire County Cricket Club is heartbroken to announce the untimely passing of Josh Baker, who was aged only 20 years old.
“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. Further comments will not be provided during this sensitive period.”
Worcestershire’s chief executive, former England spinner Ashley Giles, said: “The news of Josh’s passing has left us all devastated. 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 England and Wales Cricket Board also shared its condolences, posting on X: “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.”