Former England and Surrey batsman Graham Thorpe died this week. Thorpe was 55 years old.
He played 100 Tests and 82 ODIs from 1993 to 2005 – and collected 16 centuries and 60 half-tons across both formats.
Thorpe was head coach of Afghanistan before becoming ill in 2022. He had previously worked with England’s coaching staff.
England’s ‘deep shock’
“It is with great sadness that the ECB shares the news that Graham Thorpe, MBE, has passed away,” read a statement from the England and Wales Cricket Board.
“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 team-mates and England and Surrey 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. 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.”
Surrey’s ‘overwhelming sadness’
Surrey chairman Oli Slipper added: “Graham is one of the great sons of Surrey and there is an overwhelming sadness that he will not walk through the gates of The Oval again. He is a legend of Surrey and brought great pride to the Club wearing both the Three Feathers and the Three Lions.”
“He made outstanding contributions to the club as a cricketer, and as a man, and he will be so sorely missed.”
Surrey chief executive officer Steve Elworthy continued: “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.”