The cricketing world has been left in shock and sorrow following the tragic demise of former England batsman Graham Thorpe at the young age of 55. Thorpe, who had been battling an illness for some time, passed away on August 5, 2024, leaving an indelible mark on the sport he loved.
A Tribute from the Master Blaster
Among the many tributes pouring in for Thorpe, one stands out for its heartfelt sincerity and respect. Indian batting legend Sachin Tendulkar took to social media to express his condolences, writing, “It’s extremely sad to learn that Graham Thorpe is no longer with us. His reputation as a naturally gifted, free-flowing batter who played fearlessly and with flair, always stood out. Sending my heartfelt condolences to his family and close ones. Rest in peace, Graham.”
Tendulkar’s words capture the essence of Thorpe’s cricketing prowess and the impact he had on the game. As a left-handed batsman, Thorpe was known for his elegance, technical mastery, and ability to adapt to any situation. His fearless approach and flair on the pitch made him a fan favourite and a respected opponent.
A Stellar International Career
Thorpe’s international career spanned over a decade, during which he represented England in 100 Test matches and 82 ODIs. He amassed 6,744 runs in Tests at an impressive average of 44.66, including 16 centuries and 39 fifties. His highest score of 200* remains one of the highlights of his illustrious career.
In ODIs, Thorpe scored 2,380 runs at an average of 37.18, with 21 half-centuries to his name. He was a key member of the England teams that competed in the 1996 and 1999 Cricket World Cups, showcasing his ability to perform on the biggest stages.
A Coaching Legacy
After retiring from international cricket in 2005, Thorpe transitioned into coaching, sharing his vast knowledge and experience with aspiring cricketers. He held coaching positions with New South Wales, Surrey, and the England men’s national team, playing a crucial role in their success.
Thorpe served as England’s batting coach for the majority of the 2010s, contributing to their historic triumph at the 2019 Cricket World Cup on home soil. He was set to take up the role of Afghanistan’s head coach in March 2022 but was unable to do so due to his illness.
Graham Thorpe’s passing is a profound loss for the cricketing community, as he was not only a gifted player but also a wonderful human being. His dedication to the sport and his ability to inspire those around him will be long remembered by his teammates, opponents, and fans alike.
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