Josh Baker, a left-arm spinner, passed away unexpectedly earlier this year from arrhythmic death syndrome.
Worcestershire County Cricket Club has announced that the number 33 shirt will be retired in remembrance of left-arm spinner Josh Baker, who unfortunately died earlier this year. Baker was a talented and devoted local player who took 43 wickets in 22 first-class appearances for Worcestershire. He also took 27 wickets in 25 white-ball matches for the club and twice represented England at the under-19 level on their tour of Sri Lanka. He had taken 3-66 in the first innings of Worcestershire’s four-day 2nd XI Championship match against Somerset at Bromsgrove School before unfortunately dying on May 2 from sudden arrhythmic death syndrome. The match was called off early on the last day.
“Josh was a remarkable person in addition to being a superb cricket player. Everyone who knew him feels his loss profoundly, both at our club and in their hearts. For the first time in our club’s history, retiring the Number 33 shirt guarantees that his legacy and contributions will always be remembered. Future generations will be inspired by his legacy, according to Ashley Giles, CEO of Worcestershire.
After being named England’s Test captain in May 2022, Baker gained notoriety after he was hit for 34 runs in an over by Ben Stokes. In an effort to inspire him to give it his all on the pitch that evening, Stokes texted him.Two long-lasting mementos to Josh’s service to Worcestershire will be established as part of the club’s tribute: a metal bench with Josh’s locker plaque will be placed at the training nets, and a framed Baker 33 shirt will be kept on permanent display in the Graeme Hick Pavilion.
According to the club, Paul and Lisa, Josh’s parents, have also been granted Life Memberships, guaranteeing their continued affiliation with the Worcestershire community and New Road’s continued status as a place of acceptance and community.
