Worcestershire spin bowler Josh Baker dies aged 20 as tributes pour in

Worcestershire have announced that 20-year-old spin bowler Josh Baker has tragically lost his life.

Tributes have poured in for the youngster, who had made two appearances in the County Championship this season for Worcestershire.

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Worcestershire chief executive Ashley Giles said: "The news of Josh’s passing has left us all devastated.

"Josh was much more than a teammate; 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 cause of his death has not been disclosed.

Baker made his debut in first-class cricket in 2021 and had played 47 times in all formats, taking 70 wickets.

It was only Tuesday when the 20-year-old took three wickets for the second team in a match against Somerset.

Renowned as a talented up-and-coming spin bowler, the news of his death has left many shocked.

Tributes have poured in for the Redditch-born star, including from other cricket clubs and fans.

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The England and Wales Cricket Board said: "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."

Yorkshire said: "Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone at Worcestershire CCC and with all of Josh’s friends and family at this heartbreaking time. RIP Josh."

The official England Barmy Army X account wrote: "RIP Josh Baker. Our thought are with his friends, family and everyone @WorcsCCC at a truly awful time."

A fan posted: "Awful, awful news. Josh was not only a talented young cricketer but a lovely, personable young man, always happy to chat to us supporters. RIP Josh."

And another fan said: "Absolutely heartwrenching news. Made even more impactful that he was out on the field yesterday taking 3 wickets for the 2nds and the team were playing until lunch today. Life can't just be taken for granted and we keep forgetting that until incidents like this happen. RIP Josh."

Baker had only signed a three-year contract with Worcestershire last year, helping them win promotion from Championship Division Two after five appearances.

A club statement said: "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."