England captain Ben Stokes sent promising cricketer Josh Baker a touching message of support after they faced off in 2022 - two years before the Worcestershire star's tragic death at the age of 20.
Talented spin bowler Baker was found dead in his apartment on Thursday after he didn't turn up for the start of play on day three of his team's clash with Somerset seconds. The 20-year-old had taken three wickets the previous day, including that of England international Jack Leach.
After turning professional in 2021, Baker faced Stokes' Durham side when he was just 18. Stokes, who'd only recently been appointed captain of the England Test team, hit five sixes off Baker's bowling in one over.
After the game, the Durham all-rounder took time to send his young opponent a heartwarming message about learning from defeat and shutting out the critics - something Stokes knows all about. "Hey Josh, Ben Stokes here," the text read.
"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 professionals cricketers and they didn't make it.
"You've got serious potential and I think you'll go a long way. Most important opinion is from the lads in your changing room, and they will always have your back. This (is) coming from someone who got meeeeelted in a T20 World Cup final."
The message was relayed in the book 'Bazball: The inside story of a Test cricket revolution', in a section showcasing Stokes' humanity which makes him the leader he is. Tributes have poured in for ex-England under-19 international Baker, with his parents writing on Facebook: "We are both broken. Achieved so many of his dreams before reaching 21.
"Take every opportunity to hug your parents and children. We've taken great comfort from the many messages received so far - keep sharing and posting your memories please."
England white-ball captain Jos Buttler paid tribute on Instagram, saying: "Incredibly sad news, thoughts and prayers with all Josh's family, friends and all at Worcs."
Former England captain Michael Vaughan posted on X/Twitter: "This is so sad... Thoughts with all his family and close friends."
Vaughan's old team-mate, Kevin Pietersen, also wrote: "Goodness me, this is heartbreaking! Horrific news of this up-and-coming young cricketer leaving the world way too soon!"
Ex-Pakistan batsman Azhar Ali added: "Really sad to hear this shocking news. Josh was a wonderful and bright boy always had a smile on his face."