Worcestershire spin bowler Josh Baker has died at the age of 20.
Baker made two County Championship appearances this season, the last against Durham at Kidderminster in April.
The left-armer made his first-class debut in 2021 and played 47 games in all formats, taking 70 wickets.
“The news of Josh’s passing has left us all devastated,” said Worcestershire chief executive Ashley Giles.
The club has not said how Baker died.
He played in a county second XI fixture this week against Somerset at Bromsgrove School, taking three wickets on Wednesday after wet conditions meant no play was possible on the first two days.
Worcestershire’s first XI do not have a County Championship fixture this week.
“Josh was much more than a team-mate; he was an integral part of our cricket family,” added former England spinner and coach Giles.
“We will all miss him terribly. All our love and prayers go out to Josh’s family and friends.”
Born in Redditch, Baker came through the ranks at New Road and represented England at under-19 level.
He signed a three-year contract last year, having recovered from a back injury that he suffered in 2022, and played five Championship games to help Worcestershire win promotion from Championship Division Two.
A club statement said:, external “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.”
Tributes to Baker have been paid by other first-class counties.
Warwickshire posted on X, formerly Twitter: “Our heartfelt condolences go to Josh’s family, friends and Worcestershire colleagues on hearing this tragic news.
“We know how much he was loved and respected at Kenilworth Wardens where he played in recent seasons.”
Pakistan spin bowler Usama Mir, who is due to rejoin Worcestershire for this summer’s T20 Blast, posted: “So sad and upset to hear the news of Josh’s passing. He was one of the nicest people you could meet. And a brilliant cricketer.”
Professional Cricketers’ Association chief executive Paul Lynch said:, external “Everybody at the PCA is heartbroken to hear of Josh’s passing and we offer our sincere condolences to all his family, friends and teammates.
“Josh was a cricketer with his full career and life ahead of him and this news is impossible to comprehend.
“The PCA and the Professional Cricketers’ Trust are working to support Josh’s family, his team-mates and all PCA members who are affected.”
Worcestershire say they are “committed to honouring his memory in a manner befitting the remarkable person he was” but plans to pay tribute to him will remain private for the time being.
