A heartbreaking final video shows cricket star Josh Baker taking three wickets in his final match – hours before his tragic death.
Tributes have poured in from around the match for Worcestershire spinner Baker, who died aged just 20, The Sun reports.
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Josh's tragic death came after he took three wickets as Worcestershire's second eleven against Somerset on Wednesday.
Although the match was interrupted by rain and ended in a draw, he finished with impressive figures of 3/66 over 20 overs.
The left-hander made his first-class debut in 2021, playing 47 matches across all formats and taking 70 wickets.
Josh was found dead in his apartment after failing to turn up for the third day of his team's game against Somerset, the Mail reported.
A club statement released today said: “Worcestershire County Cricket Club is heartbroken to announce the untimely passing of Josh Baker, aged just 20 years old.
“Josh turned professional with the club in 2021 and quickly became a popular figure within the team.
“More than his skill as a spin bowler, it was his vibrant spirit and contagious enthusiasm that endeared him to everyone he met.
“His warmth, kindness and professionalism were outstanding and he was a true credit to our family and a beloved member of our team.”
Worcestershire CEO Ashley Giles added:
“Josh was more than a teammate. He was an integral part of our cricket family.
“We will all miss him very much. All our love and prayers go out to Josh's family and friends.”
The club confirmed its support for Josh's family and said it would “honor his memory in a way befitting the great man he was”.
The ECB said in a statement: “The ECB is deeply saddened to learn of the death of Josh Baker. This is shocking news.
“We send our best wishes to Josh’s family and friends, everyone who knew and loved him and everyone at Worcestershire CCC.”
Former England captain Michael Vaughan added: Thoughts are with his family and all his close friends. ”
England's Barmy Army said: “Rest in peace Josh Baker. Our thoughts are with his friends, family and everyone in Worcestershire at a truly terrible time.”
The Wisden Cricket Bible said: “Our thoughts are with his family, friends and everyone associated with the club.”
Just six weeks ago, Worcestershire CCC shared another clip of Josh diving to catch a ball with one hand in a fielding challenge.
Slow-motion video shows Josh reacting immediately to put his hand on the ball as it flew toward him.
He was then seen poised to land gently on the grass at a training ground in Worcestershire.
In 2022, England Test skipper Ben Stokes sent Josh a touching message after the two played against each other.
Josh, then 18, was hit for 56 in one over when Stokes was playing for Durham.
Mr Stokes said in his message:
“The most important feedback will be from the players in the changing room and they will be rooting for you.”
— This article was originally published in The Sun and is republished with permission.