Worcestershire Rapids celebrated a significant victory in the One-Day Cup final, clinching their first knockout trophy in the longer one-day format since the NatWest Trophy in 1994. The final, played at Trent Bridge, the team went on to claim a pulsating three-wicket victory over Hampshire. This victory was the Rapids’ first experience of silverware in seven years, since claiming the T20 Blast.
In the aftermath, the team had a message for their fallen teammate. He was a former teammate of mine who we lost at 20 years old in May of 2024. In his memory, the team has sported uniforms featuring logos for the JB33 Foundation, created to help memorialize Baker. Jake Libby has received a baptism of fire as skipper, taking over when captain Brett D’Oliveira was injured three days before the final. He inspired his teammates with deep passion and emotion.
Ethan Brookes proved to be the star of the show in the final, scoring 57 off just 34 balls to take the final over and win the match. His superb all-round efforts were key in guiding Worcestershire Rapids to T20 Blast glory. Matt Waite helped the cause with a rapid-fire 16 from just five balls as the visitors completed their chase successfully.
Jake Libby spoke with great passion about the win and dedicating it to their fallen teammate Josh Baker.
“We’ve worn him on the front of our shirt and he’s very much at the forefront of our thoughts all the time, and this one’s for him.” – Jake Libby
As Libby looked back on Baker’s impact on the team, he said, “He was everything to us as a collective group. He shared a poignant moment with Baker’s parents after the match, saying, “We gave his mum and dad a big hug. They’ve been fantastic over the last couple of years.”
The head coach, Alan Richardson, acknowledged the challenges faced during the season due to a demanding schedule. He praised his team’s resilience.
“It’s been a tough season for everyone with the schedule the way it is,” – Alan Richardson
Brookes talked about his emotional reaction to the moment, and how he personally felt that Baker would be proud.
“I know he’ll be looking down at us with a big smile on his face. It’s very emotional.” – Ethan Brookes
Most of all their Worcestershire Rapids’ victory brought the players smiles of jubilation. It further honored the legacy Josh Baker left on the team and in Gulley’s life. As they lifted the trophy at Trent Bridge, it was clear that the spirit of their late teammate would continue to inspire them in future endeavors.
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