Worcestershire left-arm spinner Josh Baker has died at the age of 20.
Baker was found dead in his apartment by a friend after he failed to answer his phone calls.
The youngster has featured twice for the county this season, hitting 3 for 66 in the first innings of Worcestershire's four-day 2nd Eleven Championship match against Somerset on Wednesday at Bromsgrove School. He was recording hits.
Baker made his first-class debut in 2021, playing 47 matches across all formats and taking 70 wickets.
Baker was born in Redditch, grew up at New Road and represented England at Under-19 level.
He recovered from a back injury sustained in 2022 and signed a three-year deal last year, appearing in five Championship games and helping Worcestershire win promotion from Championship Division Two.
In a club statement, Worcestershire said they were “heartbroken” by the 20-year-old's death and described him as a “vibrant spirit and infectious enthusiasm” in a tribute.
“More than his skill as a spin bowler, it was his vibrant spirit and contagious enthusiasm that endeared him to everyone he met,” the club said.
“His warmth, kindness and professionalism were outstanding and he was a true credit to our family and a beloved member of our team.”
Former England spinner Ashley Giles, Worcestershire chief executive, gave a personal message.
“We are all shocked to hear of Josh's passing. Josh was more than just a teammate. He was an integral part of our cricket family. We all miss him. He will be greatly missed. All our love and prayers go out to Josh's family and friends,” Giles said.
In 2022, Baker was hit with 34 runs, one over Ben Stokes, in a match between Worcestershire and Durham.
Stokes then sent Baker a message on WhatsApp saying, “Today will decide the rest of the season.”
“You have great potential, [I] I think we can go far,” Stokes added. “The most important opinion is from the players in the changing room and they will always be there to support you. These are coming from someone who suffered badly in the T20 World Cup final.”
The England Cricket Board (ECB) said: “We are deeply saddened to learn of Mr Baker's death.”
“This is devastating news. We wish Josh's family and friends, everyone who knew and loved him, and everyone at Worcestershire CCC the very best.”
Rob Key, ECB's managing director of men's cricket, wrote on X (formerly Twitter): Our thoughts go out to Josh's entire family. ”
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Date first uploaded: March 5, 2024 10:30 IST