The cricket world is in mourning as former England batter Graham Thorpe has died at the age of 55. Thorpe, who made his international debut in 1993, left an indelible mark on the sport, becoming the first England player in 20 years to score a century on his Ashes debut.
Thorpe’s career was one for the history books. He was a staple in the England team, playing 100 Tests and scoring 16 centuries. In addition to his Test career, he featured in 82 ODIs and had a remarkable 17-year career with Surrey. His final Test appearance came in June 2005, just before the victorious Ashes series that summer, after which he retired from international cricket.
A heartfelt statement from the England and Wales Cricket Board 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.”
Thorpe remained involved in cricket after retiring as a player. He moved to New South Wales, where he worked with a young Steve Smith and David Warner. He later returned to England, working with the national team between 2010 and 2022. One notable moment was when Thorpe stepped in to coach England at the Sydney Cricket Ground during the Ashes after Chris Silverwood contracted coronavirus, leading the team to a thrilling draw.
Surrey chief executive Steve Elworthy expressed the club’s sorrow, stating, “Everyone associated with the club is devastated by the tragic news of Graham’s passing. He achieved remarkable feats for club and country and was a hero to so many cricket fans. Our thoughts and condolences are with Graham’s family and friends, to whom we will offer any support that we are able to. We ask that everyone respects the privacy of the family at this incredibly difficult time.”
Former England captain Michael Vaughan paid tribute on social media, writing, “RIP Thorpey. Thanks for all the advice throughout my career, you were a great player and a brilliant team-mate. You have gone far too young but you leave as an England cricket legend… Thoughts with all who knew Thorpey and to all the family xxx.”
Current England opener Ben Duckett also shared his condolences, saying, “Heartbreaking to see Thorpey has passed away. He was one of my heroes growing up and I was fortunate to work with him. My thoughts go out to all of his friends and family during this tough time.”
Thorpe’s legacy in cricket is profound, and his contributions both on and off the field will be remembered by fans and players alike.
For further insights and tributes, visit the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) website.
