On Day 2 of the ongoing fifth and final Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy at The Oval, England’s players took the field wearing special headbands in memory of the late Graham Thorpe, who died by suicide last year. The headbands, co-designed with Thorpe’s family, are part of the “A Day for Thorpey” initiative, which aims to raise funds for the mental health charity Mind. The design mirrors the iconic style Thorpe sported during his playing days. Limited-edition versions are being sold to support the cause.&nbsp;Thorpe, who passed away on August 4 last year at the age of 55 after a long struggle with major depression and anxiety, was one of England’s most dependable batters of the late 1990s and early 2000s. Debuting in 1993, the left-hander played 100 Tests, scoring 6,744 runs at an average of 44.66, with 16 centuries and 39 half-centuries, including a highest score of 200 not out. In ODIs, he amassed 2,380 runs at 37.18 with 21 fifties. A Surrey stalwart, Thorpe’s influence extended beyond his own career. As part of England’s coaching setup, he played a key role in developing modern stars such as England Test captain Ben Stokes and Joe Root.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-wanted-to-give-a-message-chahal-s-take-on-his-divorce-with-dhanashree-here-s-why-he-wore-sugar-daddy-t-shirt-1754052229762">'Wanted to give a message...': Chahal's take on his divorce with Dhanashree — Here's why he wore 'Sugar daddy T-shirt'</a>&nbsp;Coming to the match, earlier in the day, pacer Gus Atkinson’s five-wicket haul helped restrict India to 224 after they resumed on 204/6. England’s openers then came out firing, with Ben Duckett (43) and Zak Crawley (52*) putting on a rapid 92-run stand to seize early control. At lunch, England were 109/1, trailing by 115 runs, with Crawley and England's stand in captain Ollie Pope (12*) unbeaten. For India, Akash Deep was the lone wicket-taker in the morning session.

IND vs ENG 5th Test Heres why England players wore special headbands Details inside

On Day 2 of the ongoing fifth and final Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy at The Oval, England’s players took the field wearing special headbands in memory of the late Graham Thorpe, who died by suicide last year. The headbands, co-designed with Thorpe’s family, are part of the “A Day for Thorpey” initiative, which aims to raise funds for the mental health charity Mind. The design mirrors the iconic style Thorpe sported during his playing days. Limited-edition versions are being sold to support the cause. Thorpe, who passed away on August 4 last year at the age of 55 after a long struggle with major depression and anxiety, was one of England’s most dependable batters of the late 1990s and early 2000s. Debuting in 1993, the left-hander played 100 Tests, scoring 6,744 runs at an average of 44.66, with 16 centuries and 39 half-centuries, including a highest score of 200 not out. In ODIs, he amassed 2,380 runs at 37.18 with 21 fifties. A Surrey stalwart, Thorpe’s influence extended beyond his own career. As part of England’s coaching setup, he played a key role in developing modern stars such as England Test captain Ben Stokes and Joe Root. Also Read: 'Wanted to give a message...': Chahal's take on his divorce with Dhanashree — Here's why he wore 'Sugar daddy T-shirt' Coming to the match, earlier in the day, pacer Gus Atkinson’s five-wicket haul helped restrict India to 224 after they resumed on 204/6. England’s openers then came out firing, with Ben Duckett (43) and Zak Crawley (52*) putting on a rapid 92-run stand to seize early control. At lunch, England were 109/1, trailing by 115 runs, with Crawley and England's stand in captain Ollie Pope (12*) unbeaten. For India, Akash Deep was the lone wicket-taker in the morning session.

The England great was instrumental in shaping the careers and craft of many English modern-day greats, including Stokes and Joe Root. Notably, the headbands have been co-designed with Graham's family

IND vs ENG, 5th Test: Here's why England players wore special headbands. Details inside

The Surrey County Cricket Club (SCCC) will honour late English cricket hero Graham Thorpe, who died by suicide last year, during day two of the fifth and final Test between India and England at the Kia Oval in London. The second day of the final home Test of English summer will belong to Thorpe, who featured in 100 Tests and 82 One-Dayers for the Poms. Thorpe was killed in a rail accident last August at the age of 55, with his family claiming he died of suicide. &nbsp;

"The life of England and Surrey cricketer Graham Thorpe will be remembered and celebrated on Friday, 1 August 2025, during the second day of the final Test Match in the series between England v India," the SCCC said in a statement. "A Day for Thorpey will be held at the Kia Oval Cricket Ground, London, in support of mental health charity Mind, on what would have been Graham's 56th birthday," the county noted.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sarfaraz-khan-weight-loss-journey-shocks-internet-kevin-pietersen-in-awe-urges-prithvi-shaw-to-follow-fitness-routine-1753095618420">Sarfaraz Khan’s weight-loss journey shocks internet; Kevin Pietersen in awe, urges THIS Indian batter to take inspiration</a> &nbsp;Thorpe played first-class cricket for Surrey, and even after retiring from international cricket, he took up various coaching roles within the sport for both his county and England. &nbsp;Besides, the spectators are urged to wear the sports headbands, co-designed by Thorpe's wife and daughters, that he wore during his 12-year decorated career from 1993 till 2005. &nbsp;"A Day for Thorpey will raise money for mental health charity Mind through the sale of a limited-edition headband which resembles what Graham wore when he was batting for England. The headbands have been co-designed with Graham's wife, Amanda, and daughters Kitty and Emma," the statement further read.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A Day for Thorpey 🤎 We&#39;ll be celebrating the life of Graham Thorpe on Day 2 of the 5th Test Match at the Kia Oval. Working with Graham&#39;s wife Amanda, and her daughters, we&#39;re supporting Mind to raise funds and awareness of those struggling with their mental wellbeing. Read… <a href="https://t.co/LAcv6yi4Pu">pic.twitter.com/LAcv6yi4Pu</a>&mdash; Surrey Cricket (@surreycricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/surreycricket/status/1947225401241088006?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy</h2>Team England leads the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2-1.&nbsp;&nbsp;After winning the series opener at Headingley in Leeds, England lost the second Test in Birmingham. They made a comeback with a close 22-run win against India at the Lord’s in the third Test, leading the five-match series 2-1.&nbsp; &nbsp;For the touring Indian Team, newly-appointed captain Shubman Gill leads the run-scoring chart, having hit over 600 runs across three games, while ace quick Mohammed Siraj is the leading wicket-taker, with 13 scalps to his name. &nbsp;Jasprit Bumrah, who is supposed to play just three of the five Tests on this tour due to his back-related issues, is second on the list with 12 wickets in two contested matches, including picking two five-fors in each game. &nbsp;Meanwhile, the action moves to Old Trafford in Manchester, which will host the fourth Test starting Wednesday (Jul 23).

Thorpe played first-class cricket for Surrey, and even after retiring from international cricket, he took up various coaching roles within the sport for both his county and England.

The Surrey County Cricket Club (SCCC) will honour late English cricket hero Graham Thorpe, who died by suicide last year, during day two of the fifth and final Test between India and England at the Kia Oval in London. The second day of the final home Test of English summer will belong to Thorpe, who featured in 100 Tests and 82 One-Dayers for the Poms. Thorpe was killed in a rail accident last August at the age of 55, with his family claiming he died of suicide.

Thorpe played first-class cricket for Surrey, and even after retiring from international cricket, he took up various coaching roles within the sport for both his county and England.

IND vs ENG 2025: Surrey to honour English cricket hero Graham Thorpe during Oval Test, details inside

Ahead of the start of the three-match Test series opener versus Sri Lanka, at Old Trafford, Manchester, Ollie Pope-led&nbsp;England will pay tribute to former batter Graham Thorpe, who passed away&nbsp;early&nbsp;this&nbsp;month. Before the national anthems&nbsp;on Day 1 of the first Test, on Wednesday (Aug 21), England players will remember the celebrated cricketer and&nbsp;a&nbsp;tribute video will also be played on the big screen at the iconic&nbsp;ground.

Notably, Thorpe -- who represented England in 100 Tests and 82 ODIs and ended with&nbsp;6,744 and 2,380 runs respectively -- committed suicide on Aug&nbsp;4 after battling 'major depression and anxiety'. His widow Amanda confirmed that the former English cricketer took his&nbsp;life -- succumbing to injuries sustained after being struck by a train in Surrey --&nbsp;despite his close ones&nbsp;helping him battle mental health issues.

Prior to the Manchester Test versus the Lankans, stand-in captain Pope said, "We'll have our black armbands on throughout the game and there'll be a tribute to him before. It has hurt a lot of people in that changing room. He was a great man. I probably had two or three years playing with him as a batting coach. I really admired him."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/england-vs-sri-lanka-1st-test-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-eng-vs-sl-series-opener-751646">England vs Sri Lanka, 1st Test Live Streaming: When and Where to watch Eng vs SL series opener</a>

He further added, "I remember him saying one thing to me, which was: 'Never let the runs you're scoring define you as a person'.&nbsp;In a bit of a rut when you're young, that was exactly what I needed to hear. It shows, for me, what a people's person he was.

"He was loved in the changing room. He's such a sad loss to everyone: to the country, his family, and the boys as well. He's missed, and we'll honour him this week."

Pope is leading England in the three home Tests versus Sri Lanka after regular Test captain Ben Stokes got injured during The Hundred. England have already named their playing XI for the Manchester opener.

England playing XI for first Test vs Sri Lanka:&nbsp;Dan Lawrence, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (c), Joe Root, Harry Brook (vc), Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Matthew Potts, Mark Wood, Shoaib Bashir.

Ahead of the start of the three-match Test series opener versus Sri Lanka, at Old Trafford, Manchester, Ollie Pope-led England will pay tribute to former batter Graham Thorpe, who passed away early this month.

Ahead of the start of the three-match Test series opener versus Sri Lanka, at Old Trafford, Manchester, Ollie Pope-led England will pay tribute to former batter Graham Thorpe, who passed away early this month. Before the national anthems on Day 1 of the first Test, on Wednesday (Aug 21), England players will remember the celebrated cricketer and a tribute video will also be played on the big screen at the iconic ground. Notably, Thorpe -- who represented England in 100 Tests and 82 ODIs and ended with 6,744 and 2,380 runs respectively -- committed suicide on Aug 4 after battling 'major depression and anxiety'. His widow Amanda confirmed that the former English cricketer took his life -- succumbing to injuries sustained after being struck by a train in Surrey -- despite his close ones helping him battle mental health issues. Prior to the Manchester Test versus the Lankans, stand-in captain Pope said, "We'll have our black armbands on throughout the game and there'll be a tribute to him before. It has hurt a lot of people in that changing room. He was a great man. I probably had two or three years playing with him as a batting coach. I really admired him." Also read: England vs Sri Lanka, 1st Test Live Streaming: When and Where to watch Eng vs SL series opener He further added, "I remember him saying one thing to me, which was: 'Never let the runs you're scoring define you as a person'. In a bit of a rut when you're young, that was exactly what I needed to hear. It shows, for me, what a people's person he was. "He was loved in the changing room. He's such a sad loss to everyone: to the country, his family, and the boys as well. He's missed, and we'll honour him this week." Pope is leading England in the three home Tests versus Sri Lanka after regular Test captain Ben Stokes got injured during The Hundred. England have already named their playing XI for the Manchester opener. England playing XI for first Test vs Sri Lanka: Dan Lawrence, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (c), Joe Root, Harry Brook (vc), Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Matthew Potts, Mark Wood, Shoaib Bashir.

Eng vs SL, 1st Test: England to pay fitting tribute to late Graham Thorpe ahead of series opener

Former England batter Graham Thorpe died in a train mishap, it was revealed at the opening of inquest into his death. Thorpe was hit by the train on the morning of August 4 at Esher railway station in Surrey, England.

His wife, Amanda, told the Times in a interview on Monday (Aug 4) that Thorpe died by suicide. A date for full inquest is expected to be set later.

Thorpe left behind his wife Amanda and their two daughters Kitty, 22, and Emma, 19, as well as his first wife Nicky and their two children, Henry and Amelia.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/still-feel-i-could-englands-james-anderson-mulls-playing-franchise-cricket-post-recent-test-retirement-749831">'Still feel I could...,' England's James Anderson mulls playing franchise cricket post recent Test retirement</a>

Amanda told The Times, "Despite having a wife and two daughters whom he loved and who loved him, he did not get better. He was so unwell in recent times and he really did believe that we would be better off without him and we are devastated that he acted on that and took his own life."

"Despite glimpses of hope and of the old Graham, he continued to suffer from depression and anxiety, which at times got very severe. We supported him as a family and he tried many, many treatments but unfortunately none of them really seemed to work," she added.

Thorpe's daughter Kitty stated, "We are not ashamed of talking about it. There is nothing to hide and it is not a stigma. We were trying to help him get better before and trying to protect him, which is why we said nothing.

The Surrey area coroner Simon Wickens, who got the referral from the British Transport Police, recorded the cause of death as one of multiple injuries.

“Officers were called to Esher railway station at 8.26am on August 4 to reports of a casualty on the tracks. Paramedics also attended, however sadly a person was pronounced dead at the scene. The incident is not being treated as suspicious,” the&nbsp;police earlier informed regarding the accident, reported the Guardian.

Former England batter Graham Thorpe died in a train mishap, it was revealed at the opening of inquest into his death. Thorpe was hit by the train on the morning of August 4 at Esher railway station in Surrey, England.

Former England batter Graham Thorpe died in a train mishap, it was revealed at the opening of inquest into his death. Thorpe was hit by the train on the morning of August 4 at Esher railway station in Surrey, England. His wife, Amanda, told the Times in a interview on Monday (Aug 4) that Thorpe died by suicide. A date for full inquest is expected to be set later. Thorpe left behind his wife Amanda and their two daughters Kitty, 22, and Emma, 19, as well as his first wife Nicky and their two children, Henry and Amelia. Also Read: 'Still feel I could...,' England's James Anderson mulls playing franchise cricket post recent Test retirement Amanda told The Times, "Despite having a wife and two daughters whom he loved and who loved him, he did not get better. He was so unwell in recent times and he really did believe that we would be better off without him and we are devastated that he acted on that and took his own life." "Despite glimpses of hope and of the old Graham, he continued to suffer from depression and anxiety, which at times got very severe. We supported him as a family and he tried many, many treatments but unfortunately none of them really seemed to work," she added. Thorpe's daughter Kitty stated, "We are not ashamed of talking about it. There is nothing to hide and it is not a stigma. We were trying to help him get better before and trying to protect him, which is why we said nothing. The Surrey area coroner Simon Wickens, who got the referral from the British Transport Police, recorded the cause of death as one of multiple injuries. “Officers were called to Esher railway station at 8.26am on August 4 to reports of a casualty on the tracks. Paramedics also attended, however sadly a person was pronounced dead at the scene. The incident is not being treated as suspicious,” the police earlier informed regarding the accident, reported the Guardian.

Ex-England cricketer Graham Thorpe died after being hit by train, revealed in inquest

Former England captain Graham Thorpe passed away last week. The 55-year-old&nbsp;played 100 Tests and 82 ODIs, scoring 6744 and 2380 runs, respectively. The England and Wales Cricket Board said on X, "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." However, his family has revealed that Thorpe committed suicide, succumbing to&nbsp;his battle against depression.

<h2>'He really did believe that we would be better off without him'</h2>

Thorpe left behind his wife Amanda and their two daughters Kitty, 22, and Emma, 19, as well as his first wife Nicky and their two children, Henry and Amelia. Amanda told The Times, "Despite having a wife and two daughters whom he loved and who loved him, he did not get better. He was so unwell in recent times and he really did believe that we would be better off without him and we are devastated that he acted on that and took his own life."

Amanda further opined, "For the past couple of years, Graham had been suffering from major depression and anxiety. This led him to make a serious attempt on his life in May 2022, which resulted in a prolonged stay in an intensive care unit."

"Despite glimpses of hope and of the old Graham, he continued to suffer from depression and anxiety, which at times got very severe. We supported him as a family and he tried many, many treatments but unfortunately none of them really seemed to work," she added.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/updated-icc-world-test-championship-points-table-after-west-indies-vs-south-africa-1st-test-ends-in-draw-749408">Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after West Indies vs South Africa 1st Test ends in draw</a>

Thorpe's daughter Kitty stated,&nbsp;"We are not ashamed of talking about it. There is nothing to hide and it is not a stigma. We were trying to help him get better before and trying to protect him, which is why we said nothing. This is the time now to share the news, however, horrible it is. We’ve wanted to be able to talk and share and we’d now like to raise awareness, too."

Thorpe, the left-handed batter, was regarded as one of the finest batsmen of the gentlemen's game. Debuting at the highest level in 1993, he retired from the game in 2005. He continued to serve English cricket post retirement. Thorpe was part of England's backroom team that oversaw Eoin Morgan &amp; Co's 2019 ODI World Cup success. Post this, he served as England's assistant coach before&nbsp;being removed post Ashes 2021-22 debacle. Later in the same year,&nbsp;he was also named as Afghanistan's head coach but couldn't take over after an attempt on his life.

Former England captain Graham Thorpe passed away last week. The 55-year-old played 100 Tests and 82 ODIs, scoring 6744 and 2380 runs, respectively. The England and Wales Cricket Board said on X, "It is with great sadness that we share the news that Graham Thorpe, MBE, has passed away.

Former England captain Graham Thorpe passed away last week. The 55-year-old played 100 Tests and 82 ODIs, scoring 6744 and 2380 runs, respectively. The England and Wales Cricket Board said on X, "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." However, his family has revealed that Thorpe committed suicide, succumbing to his battle against depression. 'He really did believe that we would be better off without him' Thorpe left behind his wife Amanda and their two daughters Kitty, 22, and Emma, 19, as well as his first wife Nicky and their two children, Henry and Amelia. Amanda told The Times, "Despite having a wife and two daughters whom he loved and who loved him, he did not get better. He was so unwell in recent times and he really did believe that we would be better off without him and we are devastated that he acted on that and took his own life." Amanda further opined, "For the past couple of years, Graham had been suffering from major depression and anxiety. This led him to make a serious attempt on his life in May 2022, which resulted in a prolonged stay in an intensive care unit." "Despite glimpses of hope and of the old Graham, he continued to suffer from depression and anxiety, which at times got very severe. We supported him as a family and he tried many, many treatments but unfortunately none of them really seemed to work," she added. Also read: Updated ICC World Test Championship points table after West Indies vs South Africa 1st Test ends in draw Thorpe's daughter Kitty stated, "We are not ashamed of talking about it. There is nothing to hide and it is not a stigma. We were trying to help him get better before and trying to protect him, which is why we said nothing. This is the time now to share the news, however, horrible it is. We’ve wanted to be able to talk and share and we’d now like to raise awareness, too." Thorpe, the left-handed batter, was regarded as one of the finest batsmen of the gentlemen's game. Debuting at the highest level in 1993, he retired from the game in 2005. He continued to serve English cricket post retirement. Thorpe was part of England's backroom team that oversaw Eoin Morgan & Co's 2019 ODI World Cup success. Post this, he served as England's assistant coach before being removed post Ashes 2021-22 debacle. Later in the same year, he was also named as Afghanistan's head coach but couldn't take over after an attempt on his life.

We are devastated: England legend Graham Thorpe committed suicide? Wife makes SHOCKING claim

Former England great and coach Graham Thrope passed away, aged 55, on Monday (Aug&nbsp;5), the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed in an official statement. Dubbed as the most complete England batter since Graham Gooch, Thorpe played 100 Tests and 82 ODIs, scoring 6744 and 2380 runs, respectively. The ECB expressed 'deep shock' in the announcement.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/injuries-force-england-to-drop-zak-crawley-include-two-youngsters-for-sri-lanka-tests-as-squad-announced-747251">Injuries force England to drop Zak Crawley, include two youngsters for Sri Lanka Tests as squad announced</a>

“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Graham Thorpe, MBE, has passed away,” the England and Wales Cricket Board said on X.&nbsp;“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 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.”

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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. <a href="https://t.co/VMXqxVJJCh">pic.twitter.com/VMXqxVJJCh</a>
— England and Wales Cricket Board (@ECB_cricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/ECB_cricket/status/1820354724014547104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Thorpe was a fluent left-handed middle-order batter, having represented Surrey in 189 first-class matches, scoring 49 centuries and averaging 45.04. He announced his retirement in 2005.

Meanwhile, growing up, Thorpe was good enough in football to be selected for England Schoolboys and was to be offered a trial with Brentford; however, he decided against going ahead with that and instead joined Surrey, where he spent his professional career as a cricketer.&nbsp;

<h2>Break and return</h2>

Following a successful stint in England colours, Thorpe took an indefinite break from cricket in 2002 owing to issues in his private life. Following the drawn-out collapse of his first marriage and the public humiliation that came with it, Thorpe completely broke down.&nbsp;

He, however, returned after a 13-month gap during the home South Africa series in 2003, hitting a hundred at The Oval. In 2004, he performed his best, averaging 73.15 in 20 Tests, batting at number five.

A year later, in 2005, after being dropped for the first Ashes Test, Thorpe decided to call it quits.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former England great and coach Graham Thrope passed away, aged 55, on Monday (Aug 5), the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed in an official statement.

Former England great and coach Graham Thrope passed away, aged 55, on Monday (Aug 5), the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed in an official statement. Dubbed as the most complete England batter since Graham Gooch, Thorpe played 100 Tests and 82 ODIs, scoring 6744 and 2380 runs, respectively. The ECB expressed 'deep shock' in the announcement. ALSO READ: Injuries force England to drop Zak Crawley, include two youngsters for Sri Lanka Tests as squad announced “It is with great sadness that we share the news that Graham Thorpe, MBE, has passed away,” the England and Wales Cricket Board said on X. “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 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.” 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 × Thorpe was a fluent left-handed middle-order batter, having represented Surrey in 189 first-class matches, scoring 49 centuries and averaging 45.04. He announced his retirement in 2005. Meanwhile, growing up, Thorpe was good enough in football to be selected for England Schoolboys and was to be offered a trial with Brentford; however, he decided against going ahead with that and instead joined Surrey, where he spent his professional career as a cricketer. Break and return Following a successful stint in England colours, Thorpe took an indefinite break from cricket in 2002 owing to issues in his private life. Following the drawn-out collapse of his first marriage and the public humiliation that came with it, Thorpe completely broke down. He, however, returned after a 13-month gap during the home South Africa series in 2003, hitting a hundred at The Oval. In 2004, he performed his best, averaging 73.15 in 20 Tests, batting at number five. A year later, in 2005, after being dropped for the first Ashes Test, Thorpe decided to call it quits. (With inputs from agencies)

Graham Thorpe, former England great, dies at 55, ECB confirms

Former England batter and coach Graham Thorpe has been hospitalised with a serious illness, the country's players' union said on Tuesday.

The 52-year-old Thorpe left his role in England's coaching staff after the Ashes in January and has since accepted the job as head coach of Afghanistan.

"Graham Thorpe has recently fallen seriously ill and is currently in hospital receiving treatment," read a statement issued by the Professional Cricketers' Association at the request of his family.

"His prognosis is unclear at this stage and we ask for privacy for him and his family at this time. Our thoughts are with Graham and his family."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/does-he-say-the-same-for-rohit-sharma-matthew-hayden-on-ravi-shastri-advising-virat-kohli-to-take-a-break-477887">'Does he say the same for Rohit Sharma?': Matthew Hayden on Shastri advising Virat Kohli to take a break</a>

Thorpe played 100 tests for England, scoring 16 centuries, before retiring in 2005. He started his coaching career in Australia before joining the England and Wales Cricket Board as a batting coach.

He was an assistant coach for the men's team under Trevor Bayliss and Chris Silverwood.&nbsp;

Former England batter and coach Graham Thorpe has been hospitalised with a serious illness, the country's players' union said on Tuesday. The 52-year-old Thorpe left his role in England's coaching staff after the Ashes in January and has since accepted the job as head coach of Afghanistan.

Former England batter and coach Graham Thorpe has been hospitalised with a serious illness, the country's players' union said on Tuesday. The 52-year-old Thorpe left his role in England's coaching staff after the Ashes in January and has since accepted the job as head coach of Afghanistan. "Graham Thorpe has recently fallen seriously ill and is currently in hospital receiving treatment," read a statement issued by the Professional Cricketers' Association at the request of his family. "His prognosis is unclear at this stage and we ask for privacy for him and his family at this time. Our thoughts are with Graham and his family." Also Read: 'Does he say the same for Rohit Sharma?': Matthew Hayden on Shastri advising Virat Kohli to take a break Thorpe played 100 tests for England, scoring 16 centuries, before retiring in 2005. He started his coaching career in Australia before joining the England and Wales Cricket Board as a batting coach. He was an assistant coach for the men's team under Trevor Bayliss and Chris Silverwood.

Former England batter Graham Thorpe admitted to hospital after falling 'seriously ill'

English pacer Ollie Robinson's old tweets stirred massive controversy as they were sexist and racial. The fast bowler apologised for these tweets that were back in 2012-14 when he was a teenager.&nbsp;Now, batting coach Graham Thorpe has said that England might review players' social media history before adding them to team's squads.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-batting-coach-vikram-rathour-reveals-virat-kohlis-biggest-quality-as-batsman-389479" hreflang="en">Cricket: Batting coach Vikram Rathour reveals Virat Kohli's 'biggest quality' as batsman</a>

Robinson made his Test debut in the ongoing match against New Zealand at Lords'. He picked up his maiden Test wicket in the match, however, his joy was short-lived as these racial tweets resurfaced and brought Robinson to tears.&nbsp;

"If something like this has happened, it's clearly something going forward that might need to be looked at so that a day like yesterday doesn't happen," Thorpe said on Thursday.

The English cricket board said that they will investigate the matter.&nbsp;

Thorpe said Robinson, who picked up four wickets in the first innings, understood his mistake and received support from the dressing room after his apology.

"He had to be pretty resilient because of what he's done," Thorpe added.

"It's not easy to go back out onto the stage and perform and I thought his level of performance was exceptional in that first innings."

English pacer Ollie Robinson's old tweets stirred massive controversy as they were sexist and racial. The fast bowler apologised for these tweets that were back in 2012-14 when he was a teenager.

English pacer Ollie Robinson's old tweets stirred massive controversy as they were sexist and racial. The fast bowler apologised for these tweets that were back in 2012-14 when he was a teenager. Now, batting coach Graham Thorpe has said that England might review players' social media history before adding them to team's squads. ALSO READ: Cricket: Batting coach Vikram Rathour reveals Virat Kohli's 'biggest quality' as batsman Robinson made his Test debut in the ongoing match against New Zealand at Lords'. He picked up his maiden Test wicket in the match, however, his joy was short-lived as these racial tweets resurfaced and brought Robinson to tears. "If something like this has happened, it's clearly something going forward that might need to be looked at so that a day like yesterday doesn't happen," Thorpe said on Thursday. The English cricket board said that they will investigate the matter. Thorpe said Robinson, who picked up four wickets in the first innings, understood his mistake and received support from the dressing room after his apology. "He had to be pretty resilient because of what he's done," Thorpe added. "It's not easy to go back out onto the stage and perform and I thought his level of performance was exceptional in that first innings."

'Might need to be looked at': Batting coach Graham Thorpe on Ollie's controversial tweets

England batting coach Graham Thorpe said they will not give up hope of saving the third test against Australia, but a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2019-england-post-lowest-total-against-australia-since-1948-245161">woeful batting display from the hosts</a> on Friday left them with a mountain to climb to regain the Ashes.

Trailing 1-0 in the series and replying to Australia’s far from daunting first-innings total of 179, England’s key batsmen fell cheaply, several chasing aggressive shots, as the hosts were bowled out for 67 at Headingley.

That total was their 12th lowest of all time in tests and lowest against Australia since 1948.

Joe Denly was the only player to reach double figures, top-scoring with 12 runs -- the lowest top score for an England batsman in test history.

Australia, who as holders need one more win to retain the Ashes, lost six wickets themselves on a remarkable second day in Leeds, but Marnus Labuschagne (53 not out) steered them to a lead of 283, which seems beyond a woefully out-of-form England.

"The game is not over from this position," Thorpe said. "If we can knock them over in the morning we are in with a chance.

"There have been scores of over 300 chased down here before. We have to believe."

One-day focus

In the one-day format, England won the World Cup on home soil last month, with many of the same players who have played in the Ashes.

Yet England's euphoric fans were brought crashing down to earth in the first test innings following that triumph, after they were bowled out for 85 by Ireland, who were playing only their third-ever test match.

Six of the top seven who took to the field in that first innings capitulation, started at Headingley in the third Ashes Test.

"The Australian bowlers did well but our batsmen helped them," former England great Ian Botham said. "There were some woeful shots.

Jason Roy averaged over 63 in the World Cup, firing four half-centuries and one 100, including 85 against Australia in the semi-final, but was again out attacking a ball he did not need to at Headingley.

Stokes, England’s World Cup final hero, was another guilty of a wild, needless shot when being dismissed.

England’s batsmen still seem to be playing with a one-day format focus. Forty of their 67 runs came as boundaries and nine batsmen hit at least one four.

Stokes was out for eight off 13 balls and Roy nine of 15. In comparison, Australia's Labuschagne played much more test-like innings, leaving the balls he needed to, making an unbeaten 53 off 139 balls.

Batting order uncertainty

England's issue may not be with personnel, but more where their batsmen are playing in the order.

Roy has opened the batting in six of his seven test knocks so far, averaging nine in those innings. In the one innings when he batted at three, he scored 72.

Root is another who has suffered from a move up the order to accommodate others. The England captain averages 48 from 60 innings at number four, but just 19.80 in this Ashes series batting at three, including back-to-back ducks in his last two innings.

"I don't like Joe Root at three, he's a number four," former England opener Michael Vaughan told the BBC. "You know he's going to be in so early in this team, he's basically an opener.

"Root is England's best player. Put him at four. Virat Kohli - where does he bat? Steve Smith - where does he bat?

"It's only one position but it is a huge difference."

England batting coach Graham Thorpe said they will not give up hope of saving the third test against Australia, but a woeful batting display from the hosts on Friday left them with a mountain to climb to regain the Ashes.

England batting coach Graham Thorpe said they will not give up hope of saving the third test against Australia, but a woeful batting display from the hosts on Friday left them with a mountain to climb to regain the Ashes. Trailing 1-0 in the series and replying to Australia’s far from daunting first-innings total of 179, England’s key batsmen fell cheaply, several chasing aggressive shots, as the hosts were bowled out for 67 at Headingley. That total was their 12th lowest of all time in tests and lowest against Australia since 1948. Joe Denly was the only player to reach double figures, top-scoring with 12 runs -- the lowest top score for an England batsman in test history. Australia, who as holders need one more win to retain the Ashes, lost six wickets themselves on a remarkable second day in Leeds, but Marnus Labuschagne (53 not out) steered them to a lead of 283, which seems beyond a woefully out-of-form England. "The game is not over from this position," Thorpe said. "If we can knock them over in the morning we are in with a chance. "There have been scores of over 300 chased down here before. We have to believe." One-day focus In the one-day format, England won the World Cup on home soil last month, with many of the same players who have played in the Ashes. Yet England's euphoric fans were brought crashing down to earth in the first test innings following that triumph, after they were bowled out for 85 by Ireland, who were playing only their third-ever test match. Six of the top seven who took to the field in that first innings capitulation, started at Headingley in the third Ashes Test. "The Australian bowlers did well but our batsmen helped them," former England great Ian Botham said. "There were some woeful shots. Jason Roy averaged over 63 in the World Cup, firing four half-centuries and one 100, including 85 against Australia in the semi-final, but was again out attacking a ball he did not need to at Headingley. Stokes, England’s World Cup final hero, was another guilty of a wild, needless shot when being dismissed. England’s batsmen still seem to be playing with a one-day format focus. Forty of their 67 runs came as boundaries and nine batsmen hit at least one four. Stokes was out for eight off 13 balls and Roy nine of 15. In comparison, Australia's Labuschagne played much more test-like innings, leaving the balls he needed to, making an unbeaten 53 off 139 balls. Batting order uncertainty England's issue may not be with personnel, but more where their batsmen are playing in the order. Roy has opened the batting in six of his seven test knocks so far, averaging nine in those innings. In the one innings when he batted at three, he scored 72. Root is another who has suffered from a move up the order to accommodate others. The England captain averages 48 from 60 innings at number four, but just 19.80 in this Ashes series batting at three, including back-to-back ducks in his last two innings. "I don't like Joe Root at three, he's a number four," former England opener Michael Vaughan told the BBC. "You know he's going to be in so early in this team, he's basically an opener. "Root is England's best player. Put him at four. Virat Kohli - where does he bat? Steve Smith - where does he bat? "It's only one position but it is a huge difference."

Ashes 2019: England defiant but test batting woes leave hosts on the brink

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