20-year-old spinner Josh Baker’s sudden death has shaken the close-knit cricket community. Emotional tributes poured in following the tragic death of the brilliant cricketer., while investigations are underway to find out Josh Baker’s cause of death.
What Happened to Josh Baker?
Worcestershire cricketer Josh Baker tragically died at his residence by a friend, having not arrived for a scheduled day of the match. It is only known that the rising cricket star was diagnosed with diabetes and was on medications for it. However, the details about Josh Baker’s cause of death have not been disclosed yet.
Josh Baker did not show up on the third day of his county’s second-team game against Somerset. Baker failed to respond to calls, prompting a friend to check on him at his apartment, where he was found dead. Details about Josh Baker’s cause of death remain unknown.
Upon learning of Baker’s passing, the ongoing match was called off and declared a draw, as confirmed by Worcestershire County Cricket Club in a heartfelt statement. The club expressed profound sorrow, stating,
“Worcestershire County Cricket Club is heartbroken to announce the untimely passing of Josh Baker, who was aged only 20 years old.
“Josh turned professional with the Club in 2021 and quickly became a popular figure within the squad. 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.
Worcestershire CCC also added to their statement,
“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. No further comments will not be provided during this sensitive period.”
Paul and Lisa Baker expressed their profound grief at the passing of their son, Worcestershire cricketer Josh Baker, who tragically died at the young age of 20 on Thursday. They shared their sentiments on Facebook.
‘We are both broken. Achieved so many of his dreams before reaching 21. Take every opportunity to hug your parents and children. We’ve taken great comfort from the many messages received so far – keep sharing and posting your memories please.’
Investigations for Josh Baker Cause of Death
Josh’s passing is currently being investigated by Senior Worcestershire Coroner David Reid. A spokeswoman stated,
‘We can confirm that the Senior Coroner has received a referral reporting the sad death of Joshua Baker. There will be no further information until further investigations have taken place.’
As of yet, there is no news on whether Josh Baker’s cause of death could be accidental, suicidal or homicidal.
Tributes for Josh Baker
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.
➡️ https://t.co/p5C9G0apV0 pic.twitter.com/DNNOnG4Gy7
— Worcestershire CCC (@WorcsCCC) May 2, 2024
On Friday, Worcestershire started a book of condolence in the Severn Suite at their New Road headquarters. Heartfelt tributes flooded in from friends and the global cricket community, portraying Josh as an ‘inspiring’ and ‘genuine’ young sportsman.
Josh cultivated his talents at Kenilworth Wardens Sports Club and further showcased his prowess at Malvern College, where he also excelled in hockey. None of the tributes disclosed Josh Baker cause of death.
Kim Tutcher, Josh’s former assistant to the housemaster, shared a touching tribute. He reminisced about the days when Josh used to come to the games with the support of his parents, his mother carrying his ironed shirts and his father carrying his kits when he was just a schoolboy. Tutcher commented on how Baker made things look easy despite having diabetes and ensuring he took all his medications on time. He added:
‘There is a large hole left in our lives, but it will be filled with wonderful memories of a talented and fun loving sportsman, who cruelly was taken far too soon. Night, night Josh and thank you x.’
Keith Metcalfe, Josh’s former Headmaster, said:
‘Josh was a well-loved member of the School House community and is fondly remembered by staff across the College, not least for his successes in cricket. Our whole community, past and present, send their condolences to Josh’s family, friends and teammates. They are in our thoughts and prayers.’
Former England spinner Ashley Giles, now Worcestershire Chief Executive, also honoured Josh Baker with a tribute
“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 England and Wales Cricket Board also offered their condolences. Check this space for more updates on the investigation of Josh Baker cause of death.
