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.
Thorpe is survived by his wife Amanda and four children.
-with PA.