Initially, this week's piece was set to delve into the erratic yet captivating batting of Zak Crawley or perhaps a tribute to Dan Lawrence's quicksilver wrists—discussions about missed opportunities and those that were seized. However, the unexpected and heartbreaking news of Graham Thorpe’s passing rendered those topics trivial, at least for the moment.
A Powerful Reminder
The passing of Thorpe at the age of 55 felt like a punch to the gut—too young for such a loss. This news instantly triggered a powerful urge to call my mother. For many of us, the love of cricket is something passed down through generations. While some may discover the game independently, it’s often a legacy handed from parent to child. My mother instilled this love in me and my three older brothers. My father’s interest in cricket was more sporadic, often dictated by our reactions or as background noise while he focused on other tasks, such as driving our family down the motorway in our temperamental Renault Savanna, with the radio often the source of cheers, groans, and commentary.
“Who’s batting?” or “Who’s winning?” Dad would ask, typically during moments of intense play.
“England!” we’d respond, only for him to counter with, “No one’s winning … you know it doesn’t work like that!”
My mother, the sporty parent who taught us how to grip a bat and throw a ball, would roll her eyes and shush him, just like the rest of us. She also possessed the uncanny ability to tune any radio to 198 longwave, with the finesse of a codebreaker, as we waited for the static to clear and the familiar voices of Test Match Special to emerge. Her tuning skills always brought a brief moment of tension as we tried to discern the state of play in the Test match.
Memories of Thorpe and the Golden Era
Thorpe was a constant presence in our lives, especially during England’s challenging cricketing days. Whether it was battling against the all-time great bowlers of Australia, West Indies, or South Africa, or merely holding the fort against any opposition, Thorpe was always there, a beacon of hope with his headband and determined stance. His resilience offered comfort to us in the back seats of the car during long journeys, punctuated by England’s struggles and occasional triumphs. The mere mention of “Thorpe’s in” or “Thorpe’s still in” was enough to soothe our anxiety as we traveled across campsites, grandparent visits, and weekend trips, all soundtracked by the clips of Thorpe’s steady batting.
As the news of his passing spread, so did the tributes, heartfelt messages, and highlight reels from the cricketing world, creating a shared sense of grief and remembrance. These moments brought back memories of my childhood, filled with Thorpe’s steady presence during England’s plucky duels. From his debut century against Australia at Trent Bridge to his triumphant innings in Karachi, and the emotional hundred at The Oval against South Africa, Thorpe’s batting was interwoven into the fabric of many lives.
The Influence of Graham Thorpe
Thorpe’s influence extended beyond his playing days. Those who played with him remembered him as a fabulous batsman and an even better teammate. But perhaps his greatest impact was felt by those he coached after retiring from playing, such as Joe Root and Ben Stokes, who were deeply affected by his passing. For many, including myself, Thorpe was more than just a mentor; he was a source of invaluable advice and support. Even during his personal struggles, he fully committed himself to team life whenever he was around, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he interacted with.
I have fond memories of Thorpe being there when I scored my first Test hundred against Pakistan in 2001. We formed a significant partnership, with both of us reaching centuries. His calmness and guidance helped me navigate the nervous nineties, and I admired not only his batting but also his perspective on the game and life. He had an extraordinary ability to remind us that, despite the pressures, cricket was just a game.
Thorpe’s approach to practice was just as meticulous as his gameplay. He would often focus on a specific aspect, such as forward defensives or sweeping, dedicating entire sessions to perfecting that skill. Despite his physical struggles towards the end of his career, he remained an essential part of the team, always ready to pass on his knowledge and experience to younger players.
Legacy and Reflection
As much as Thorpe was respected for his on-field prowess, his contributions to the game went largely underappreciated. He may not be frequently mentioned among the greatest English batsmen, but those who played alongside him know that he belongs in that elite group. His ability to handle both spin and pace, particularly against the likes of Muttiah Muralitharan and the formidable Australian attack, was unmatched. Thorpe had an innate cricketing intelligence, always making the right decisions under pressure, and he was a player who thrived when the game was at its most intense.
Thorpe’s career, though filled with brilliant moments, was also marked by personal struggles, particularly during the breakdown of his first marriage. These challenges often affected his performance, leading to periods where he played for England in a daze, disconnected from the game. Yet, he managed to overcome these difficulties, returning to the Test side in 2003 with one of his finest innings at The Oval.
His last Test match came in 2005 against Bangladesh, and though he was overlooked for the subsequent Ashes series, he withdrew gracefully, secure in his place as one of England’s most reliable run-scorers. Thorpe’s career may not have ended on the highest note, but his legacy as one of England’s finest cricketers remains intact. His calm, calculated approach at the crease and his ability to rise to the occasion will be remembered by all who had the privilege to watch or play alongside him. As we reflect on his life and career, it’s clear that Graham Thorpe was not just a great cricketer, but a great man who left a lasting impact on the sport and on those who knew him.