OM cricketers pay tribute to Josh Baker
Members of the Old Malvernians’ Cricket Club paid tribute to former team-mate Josh Baker when they began their defence of the Cricketer Cup at the weekend.
Baker, who joined Worcestershire in 2021 after spending five years at Malvern College and represented England at Under-19 level, died last month at the age of 20.
He also played for the Old Malvernians when his county cricket commitments allowed, and his former friends and team-mates responded to his untimely passing before and during the match against Sherborne Pilgrims.
They gave him a minute’s applause prior to start of the encounter at Malvern College and wore black armbands throughout.
A tribute was also paid by Mark Hardinges, a former Gloucestershire cricketer and Baker’s House Master at Malvern who also played with the popular and talented left-arm spinner in the Old Malvernians’ team.
Addressing more than 60 who were guests at the club’s annual patron’s lunch, he said: “Today marks the first time that our Old Malvernian community has come together to show our respect after the devastating news of Josh's passing.
“The boys were keen to wear black armbands and observe a minute's applause in his honour. Josh was undeniably one of the cricketers who put Malvern on the map.
“Many Old Malvernians have played first-class cricket, and there is a special section in the pavilion where those with notable county careers or who have played for England have their pictures displayed.
“Josh would undoubtedly have been among them. It is only fitting that his picture will now be placed there, serving as a lasting tribute to both his brilliance as a cricketer and the memory of a young man taken far too soon.”
Meanwhile, out on the Senior Turf, the Old Malvernians, inspired by skipper Josh Haynes who contributed 94 to the 50-over total of 299, won by 87 runs. The defending champions will now play Old Merchant Taylors in the next round at Malvern on June 30.
by Adrian Milledge (3.64-69)
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