Josh Baker, an English bowling all-rounder, has died at the age of 20.

Worcestershire left-arm spinner Josh Baker was found dead by a friend in his apartment after the Redditch-born cricketer didn't answer his call.

“Worcestershire County Cricket Club is heartbroken to announce the untimely passing of Josh Baker, who was aged only 20 years old. The love and prayers of everyone at the Club go out to Josh’s family and friends at this time,” the English county club announced the tragic news on social media.

Who was Josh Baker? 

Josh Baker was an English cricketer who signed his first professional contract with county club Worcestershire at the age of 17 in 2021.

He later made his first-class debut for Worcestershire against Warwickshire in July 2021.

Since then, Josh Baker took 43 wickets in 22 first-class matches. Baker was also a handy right-handed batter, who scored 411 runs in first-class cricket, including two half-centuries to his name. He registered his career-best 75 against Gloucestershire in July 2023.

In the same season, Baker played a crucial cameo against Yorkshire at Headingley in Worcestershire's final game to help his club secure promotion to the top flight from Championship Division Two. 

Apart from first-class cricket, the bowling all-rounder also played 17 List-A matches and eight T20 matches. He bagged 70 wickets and scored 525 runs in 47 games across formats. 

Baker also made two County appearances this season. The young left-arm spinner took three wickets for 66 in the first innings of Worcestershire’s four-day 2nd XI Championship match against Somerset at Bromsgrove School on Wednesday, May 1. The game was later called off early on the final day.

The Redditch-born cricketer came through the age-group levels at New Road, and also represented England at under-19 level. 

Last season, Baker signed a three-year contract after he recovered from a back injury that he succumbed to in 2022. He then played five Championship games to help Worcestershire secure promotion.

“More than his skills as a spin bowler, it was his vibrant spirit and infectious enthusiasm that endeared him to everyone he met,” said Worcestershire. 

“His warmth, kindness, and professionalism were remarkable, making him a true credit to his family and a loved member of our team,” the club added.

“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,” the England Cricket Board (ECB) said on X, formerly Twitter.

Josh Baker death reason

Worcestershire did not disclose the cause of his death. Furthermore, the country club requested for privacy after the untimely passing of Josh Baker.

“The Club, along with Josh’s family, requests the respect of privacy as we mourn this immense loss. No further comments will be provided during this sensitive period.” the club issued a statement.

Josh Baker career stats

Bowling

Format

Matches

Innings

Wickets

BBI

Average

Economy

FC

22

36

43

4/51

49.53

3.42

List A

17

17

24

3/29

31.25

5.70

T20s

8

8

3

2/26

68.66

9.36

Batting

Format

Matches

Innings

Runs

50s

Average

SR

FC

22

29

411

2

16.44

53.79

List A

17

13

100

0

14.28

84.03

T20s

8

6

14

0

3.50

56.00

Photo credit: Worcestershire CCC