Sporting community left ‘absolutely heartbroken’ over the passing of England cricket great Graham Thorpe

The cricket community is mourning the loss of former England batter Graham Thorpe, who sadly passed away on Thursday, August 5, at the age of 55.

Thorpe enjoyed a stellar career, earning 100 Test caps and being regarded as one of the best batters of his generation.

England and Wales Cricket Board announced Thorpe’s passing in a heartfelt statement that recognised his “extraordinary contributions to the sport”.

“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Graham Thorpe, MBE, has passed away,” the statement read.

“There seem to be no appropriate words to describe the deep shock we feel at Graham’s death. More than one of England’s finest ever batters, he was a beloved member of the cricket family and revered by fans all over the world.

“His skill was unquestioned and his abilities and achievements across a 13-year international career brought so much happiness to his teammates and England and Surrey CCC supporters alike.

“Later, as a coach, he guided the best England men’s talent to some incredible victories across all formats of the game.

“The cricket world is in mourning today. Our hearts go out to his wife Amanda, his children, father Geoff, and all of his family and friends during this unimaginably difficult time. We will always remember Graham for his extraordinary contributions to the sport.”

No cause of death was provided.

Thorpe made his international debut in 1993 and scored a century in his first Ashes appearance, making him the first England player to achieve this in 20 years.

A mainstay in the England team, he amassed 16 Test centuries and played 82 ODIs.

June 2005 saw Thorpe’s final Test appearance when he decided to retire from international cricket.

Following his retirement, Thorpe continued to be involved in the game, moving to New South Wales where he mentored a young Steve Smith and David Warner.

He returned to work with England from 2010 to 2022 as coach, notably stepping in for Chris Silverwood at the Sydney Cricket Ground during a period of COVID-19 disruption. Thorpe led England to a tense draw, preventing what seemed like an inevitable Ashes whitewash.

As fans learnt of Thorpe’s passing, many took to social media to share their heartbreak and honour his remarkable sporting career.

It’s extremely sad to learn that Graham Thorpe is no longer with us. His reputation as a naturally gifted, free-flowing batter who played fearlessly and with flair, always stood out. Sending my heartfelt condolences to his family and close ones. Rest in peace, Graham.

— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) August 5, 2024

Was lucky enough to meet Graham Thorpe as a part-time steward @Edgbaston during my medical student days.

Lovely bloke, even better cricketer & exquisite left handed bat.

RIP Legend 💔💔💔 pic.twitter.com/SgkmuFyPDj

— Dr Sarmy™️ 🇵🇸 (@Dr__Sarmy) August 5, 2024

Such sad news about Graham Thorpe today, a man you could rely on to regularly get runs against Australia in an era when few Englishman did – this is him going to 100 at the WACA in 1995 – it didn’t prevent a defeat by 329 runs, but his 123 did salvage some pride pic.twitter.com/lppSew9RpW

— Martin Chandler (@fredfertang) August 5, 2024

Absolutely heartbroken to hear about Graham Thorpe’s passing. So many memories touring with him. He was a fantastic teammate, superb batsman, coach and friend. my thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time #RIPThorpey

— Devon Malcolm (@devon_malcolm) August 5, 2024

I lost my younger brother and a best friend today Graham Thorpe (Chorky). A very Sad day of my life. We’ll miss you dearly brother. Condolences to the family and friends #RIP 💔 pic.twitter.com/MY0PrXUZt5

— Waqar Younis (@waqyounis99) August 5, 2024

Sadness is all I have on hearing the passing of Graham Thorpe. A warrior in our batting line up and a player not talked about enough for his elegance and style of play. My thoughts are with his family and all at @surreycricket RIP little genius

— Dean Headley (@deanheadley585) August 5, 2024

Thorpe is survived by his wife Amanda and four children.

-with PA.