England captain Ben Stokes old message to young cricketer Josh Baker before his death

England captain Ben Stokes’ message to young cricketer Josh Baker, which Stokes sent after he scored 34 runs in an over against Baker during a championship match, has gone viral on social media.

Josh Baker, a 20-year-old Worcestershire cricketer, was found dead in his flat, leaving the cricket fraternity in shock. England’s Barmy Army shared an extract of Stoke’s message to the young spinner after hitting him for 5 sixes and one four in an over during a match between Durham and Worcestershire in 2021.

“Hey Josh… Ben Stokes here. Hope you don’t mind me sending you a message pal. Please don’t let today define the rest of your season. These days social media is relentless and a vile place for keyboard warriors and people who are jealous of us that we are professional cricketers and they didn’t make it. You’ve got serious potential and I think you will go a long way. The most important opinion is from the lads in your changing room and they will always have your back”, read Stoke’s message.

We’ve been sent through this extract about the story of Ben Stokes reaching out to Josh Baker after he hit him for 34!in an over.

Stokes ❤️
Baker 💔 pic.twitter.com/ZRg5UFjq1h

— England’s Barmy Army 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🎺 (@TheBarmyArmy) May 4, 2024

Baker was roped in by Worcestershire at the tender age of 17 in 2021. The left-arm spinner claimed 43 wickets in 22 first-class matches and 27 wickets in 25 white-ball games. He was part of Worcestershire’s four-day 2nd XI championship match against Somerset at Bromsgrove School and bagged 3-66 in the first innings. He did not turn up for the day’s play and did not respond to the calls after which his friend visited his flat where the youngster was found dead.

Worcestershire Cricket Club released a statement and highlighted the spinner’s popularity within the squad. The club also asked for privacy during testing times.

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“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.

“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 be provided during this sensitive period,” a statement from the club.

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