He played 100 Test matches for his country
Former England and Surrey cricketer Graham Thorpe has died at the age of 55, it has been announced.
The batter played 100 Tests for England from 1993 to 2005, along with 82 one-day internationals.
During his career, he scored 6,744 Test runs for England, including 16 centuries.
In a statement announcing his passing, the English and Wales Cricket Board paid tribute to “one of England’s finest-ever batters.”
The ECB said: “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 spent his entire career playing county cricket for Surrey, and was described as “one of the great sons of Surrey” by the club’s chair, Oli Slipper.
He said: “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.”
Steve Elworthy, CEO at Surrey CCC, said “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.”
In May 2022, the Professional Cricketers’ Association released a statement on behalf of Thorpe’s family revealing he was seriously ill with an unclear prognosis.
