Former English batter Graham Thorpe passed away on Monday (August 5), at the age of 55.
A statement released by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Monday read: ‘’It is with great sadness that we share the news that Graham Thorpe, MBE, has passed away. 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.’’
Graham Thorpe, one of England’s greatest batters, has died.
— Wisden (@WisdenCricket) August 5, 2024
“The cricket world is in mourning today,” said the ECB in a statement. pic.twitter.com/QOiPbA2x0B
Thorpe played 100 Test matches and 82 ODIs for England, scoring over 9000 runs in international cricket and leading the team on three occasions. In 1997, he was named as Wisden's Cricketer of the Year, and in 2002 recorded his first and only double century in Test cricket against New Zealand.
He also represented Surrey in 189 first-class matches, notching up over 12,000 runs. After retirement, Thorpe took up various coaching positions with New South Wales, Surrey and the England national team. In March 2022, he was announced as Afghanistan's head coach but fell seriously ill with an "unclear prognosis" in May that same year, before he could begin the role.
The Professional Cricketers Association (PCA) announced his illness at the time on behalf of his family. Thorpe's passing is thought to be related to this illness, but the exact cause remains unconfirmed at this point.
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