Tribute to 'larger than life' Josh Baker

Josh Baker will be buried on Monday at a private service in Redditch

A former teammate of Worcestershire cricketer Josh Baker has paid tribute to his "larger than life" friend.

Baker died on 2 May but details of the cause of death have not been made public.

His funeral will take place in his home town of Redditch on Monday, with a live stream available for those who cannot attend, followed by the commemorative event at the club's New Road ground.

Tom Harris, who played with Baker at Astwood Cricket club, said: "Josh became a teammate but more importantly a friend.

"He was an inspiration to our juniors, youngest members all the way up to our seniors."

Born in Redditch, Baker made his first-class debut in 2021 and represented England Under-19s before signing a three-year contract with his home county last year.

He played 47 games in all formats, taking 70 wickets, including two County Championship appearances this season, the last against Durham in April.

Members from Astwood Bank Cricket Club will be wearing Josh's favourite colourful Hawaiian shirts to the funeral in tribute.

"Josh was a larger than life character and I think he very much would have appreciate that," Mr Harris said.

Baker quickly rose through the ranks but Mr Harris said his friend never forgot about his time at the club.

"Josh went on to live his dream but he didn't forget everyone and still maintained that friendship with everyone.

"He was and is such a big part of this club."

Josh Baker's 33 England shirt adorns the centre of Astwood Cricket Club and Mr Harris said it served as a reminder of talent and friendship lost.

"We use that more than we realise just looking up to it for inspiration and to remember he was and is the best of us."