Former England Test batsman Graham Thorpe dies aged 55

Former England Test batter Graham Thorpe has died aged 55, according to the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).

Thorpe played 100 Tests for England between 1993 and 2005 as well as 82 one-day internationals.

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

Regarded as a stylish left-handed batter, Thorpe scored 6,744 test runs for England across his 12-year first-class career.

He scored a century in his Test debut against Australia in July 1993 in the third Ashes Test of the series at Trent Bridge.

After facing just 13 balls for six runs in his first innings, the left-hander announced himself with an unbeaten 114 in the second innings. 

He partnered with Graham Gooch in that innings for a partnership of 150 runs after they fell to 5-159.

The partnership helped England secure a draw.

Thorpe’s highest Test score came in 2002 when he was the man of the match in England’s first Test against New Zealand in Christchurch. 

His 200 not out in the second innings set up a 98-run win for the visitors, who would go on to draw the three-match series 1-1.

Thorpe registered 16 Test centuries before his retirement from the format in July 2005. 

“We will always remember Graham for his extraordinary contributions to the sport.”

Thorpe played the entirety of his 17-year first-class cricket career with county team Surrey.

Oli Slipper, chair at Surrey CCC, described Thorpe as one of the club’s “great sons”. 

“There is an overwhelming sadness that he will not walk through the gates of the oval again,” Slipper said. 

The club’s chief executive, Steve Elworthy, asked that Thorpe’s family’s privacy be respected.

“He achieved remarkable feats for club and country and was a hero to so many cricket fans,” Mr Elworthy said. 

Thorpe remained in the cricketing world after his retirement, coaching domestically and internationally, including a short stint with New South Wales.