Worcestershire retire Baker's shirt number 33
Tributes to Josh Baker were held around the County Championship grounds during the first round of matches following the young spinner's death
- Published
Worcestershire have retired the number 33 shirt in memory of the club's left-arm spinner Josh Baker, who died earlier this year aged 20.
Baker, a former England-Under 19 international, passed away suddenly in May in a week in which he was playing in a second XI match against Somerset at Bromsgrove School.
In tribute, the Pears first team all wore the number 33 on their shirts in the first County Championship match following his death, against Kent at Canterbury.
"Josh was not only an outstanding cricketer but an exceptional individual," Worcestershire chief executive Ashley Giles
"His passing has left an irreplaceable void at our club and in the hearts of all who knew him.
"Retiring the Number 33 shirt, for the first time in our club's history, ensures his memory and contributions are never forgotten. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations."
As part of the tribute to Baker's legacy and to serve, the club say, as "a lasting reminder of his impact on the club, his team-mates, and the broader cricketing community", a framed 'Baker 33' shirt will be on display in the Graeme Hick Pavilion at New Road.
In addition, a metal bench with Baker's locker plaque will be placed at the training nets.
Baker's parents - Paul and Lisa - have also been awarded life memberships of the club.
Josh Baker made his first-class debut for Worcestershire in 2021 and played 47 games in all formats, taking 70 wickets