The Riverina sporting community is mourning the loss of Anthony Baker.
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'Bakes' is being remembered an a natural sportsman, who was one of the greatest cricketers to play in Wagga.
Baker passed away on Monday, aged 59, after a long battle with cancer and is survived by his wife Linda and sons James and Dan.
While best known for his cricket exploits, Baker was also a talented footballer in both Australian rules and rugby league.
Legendary Wagga cricket coach Warren Smith described Baker as 'one of the greats'.
"If he went to Sydney earlier he would have played Shield cricket, there's no doubt about it," Smith said.
"He was very, very gifted. I don't think I've seen a bloke hit the ball as hard as him. He was the complete cricketer. He could bowl medium pace, spin and he was also a very good wicket keeper.
"He was one of the best I've ever had. I can't speak highly enough of him. He was a tough bugger...and it's a very sad day for cricket. He will be sadly missed."
Baker made his first grade debut as a 16-year-old for South Wagga, then went on to forge an outstanding career at the Blues, Wagga RSL and St Michaels.
He was inducted into South Wagga's Hall of Fame in February, where he spoke at the club's centenary celebration.
Baker was also named in St Michaels' best team of 50 years and the club's first grade player's player medal is named in his honour.
He also spent a couple of seasons at Randwick in Sydney.
Wagga Cricket Association president Eric Koetz played alongside Baker at St Michaels for more than a decade and said he was the ultimate team man.
"He was a lovable larrikin who would do anything for anyone," Koetz said.
"He always wanted to help out and he was always good fun to be around. At a barbecue or party he was always front and centre and had a cheeky streak.
"He was never one to make a lot of fuss (about himself). He was there for the team, rather than for the individual."
His generosity was the thing that good mate Scott Lovell remembered most about Baker.
"He was one of the best blokes you would ever meet," Lovell said.
"He would give you the shirt off his back. It was never a problem to come and help.
"He was a great bloke to have on your team. You wanted to be on his team, not against him."
Baker scored his last first grade century back in 2011 for St Michaels against Kooringal Colts as a 51-year-old.
He was a tough key position player with Turvey Park, Marrar and Wagga Tigers. He also coached the Bombers for two years.
Baker also played first grade rugby league for Turvey Park as a teenager. It is believed he won the first Eric Weissel Medal, when it was presented as a best and fairest award in the lower grades.
A builder by trade, Baker moved to Albury about five years ago. He quickly got himself involved in cricket on the border and coached New City for a couple of seasons.
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