Former England batsman and coach Graham Thorpe has died at the age of 55. He was 'seriously ill' since 2022. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed the news of his death today.
Thorpe played 100 Tests for England between 1993 and 2005. The left-handed batsman scored 6744 runs at an average of 44.66 with 16 centuries. Besides, he played 82 ODIs and scored 2380 runs. Along with more than 21 thousand runs in the first class career, he scored more than 10 thousand runs in List 'A'.
Thorpe took up coaching after retiring from playing. He also served as the batting coach of the England national team. He was announced as the head coach of Afghanistan in March 2022. But he fell seriously ill and was admitted to the hospital in May of that year.
"It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of Graham Thorpe, MBE," the ECB said in a statement. There are no words to express our shock at Graham's death.
The ECB also said, 'Beyond one of England's greatest batsmen, he was a beloved member of the cricket family and respected by fans around the world. His skill was beyond question and his ability and achievements in a 13-year international career brought much joy to his teammates and England and Surrey supporters. Later, as a coach, he brought extraordinary achievements to the best talent of the England men's team in various editions.
The statement also said, 'The cricket world is in mourning today. Our condolences to his wife Amanda, his children, father Geoff and all family members and friends at this unimaginably difficult time. We will always remember Graham for his extraordinary contribution to cricket.'
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