Graham Thorpe, a former England cricket player, dies at the age of 55

At the age of 55, Graham Thorpe, a former middle-order batsman for England, passed away. On Monday, August 5, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) broke the sad news.

Throughout his lengthy career, Graham Thorpe—a pillar of English cricket—had many outstanding moments.

He played in 100 Test matches for England after making his debut against Australia in July 1993 at Nottingham. He played in almost ten Test matches for his country before his career ended in June 2005 against Bangladesh.

Throughout his career, the left-handed hitter consistently demonstrated his skill with the willow. With 16 hundreds and 39 half-centuries, Thorpe amassed 6,744 runs at an average of 44.66 in red-ball cricket. Thorpe played in 82 ODI matches and averaged a good 37.18 while amassing 2,380 runs.

Thorpe assumed the position of coach as well, leading England’s best players to incredible triumphs in all competition formats. The announcement was tweeted by ECB.

The announcement of Graham Thorpe’s, MBE, passing is shared with deep grief. We are deeply shocked by Graham’s passing, and words just don’t seem to express how we feel. Today is a sad day in the cricket world. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Amanda, his kids, father Geoff, and all of his loved ones during this unbearably trying time. Graham made incredible contributions to the sport, which we shall always remember,” the statement said.

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. pic.twitter.com/VMXqxVJJCh

— England and Wales Cricket Board (@ECB_cricket) August 5, 2024

In addition to being one of England’s greatest batsmen ever, he was also adored by cricket enthusiasts worldwide and regarded as a valued member of the game. His ability was undeniable, and during his 13-year international career, his accomplishments and talents delighted teammates, England supporters, and Surrey CCC members alike. Subsequently, in his capacity as a coach, he led the finest England Men’s players to some amazing triumphs in all game types, the statement continued.

The Surrey County Cricket Club, where Thorpe worked as a professional for 17 years, was deeply saddened by their great son’s passing.

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“One of Surrey’s greatest sons, Graham, will never again be able to pass through the Oval’s gates, and the loss is immense. He is a Surrey icon who, while donning the Three Feathers and the Three Lions, gave the Club immense pride. He will be sincerely missed, said Oli Slipper, chairman of Surrey Cricket Club, “He made outstanding contributions to the Club as a cricketer and as a man.”