Graham Thorpe, former England batter, passes away aged 55

Former England batter Graham Thorpe has passed away at 55, the England and Wales Cricket Board announced on Monday. The former batter played 100 Tests for England between 1993 and 2005 and 82 ODIs.

The southpaw scored 6,744 runs in Tests including 16 hundreds at an average of 44.66.

“There seem to be no appropriate words to describe the deep shock we feel at Graham’s death,” the ECB said on in a statement. “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.”

Thorpe also served as England’s batting coach and assistant coach until February 2022. He stepped down after a 4-0 loss in the Ashes.

He was named Afghanistan’s head coach in March 2022 but was hospitalised with a serious illness before he could join the team.