Graham Thorpe dead: England cricket legend who captained his country dies aged 55 after serious health battle
ENGLAND cricket legend Graham Thorpe has died aged 55, it was announced this morning.
Thorpe played for England in 100 Test Matches and 82 One Day International games.
He was named Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1997 after netting back-to-back centuries and ranking top scorer in the Ashes.
Thorpe could bat both in attack or defence depending on the match situation.
He deputised as England's captain for three ODI games over his long career.
In 2011 fellow England legend David Gower ranked Thorpe as one of the two best English batsmen he had ever encountered.
Thorpe's death was announced by Surrey Cricket Club, which he played for from 1988 until 2005.
The cricketer's family had said he was seriously ill and being treated in hospital back in May 2022.
Oli Slipper, Chair at Surrey CCC said: "Graham is one of the great sons of Surrey.
"There is an overwhelming sadness that he will not walk through the gates of the Oval again.
"He is a legend of Surrey and brought great pride to the Club wearing both the Three Feathers and the Three Lions.
"He made outstanding contributions to the Club as a cricketer, and as a man, and he will be so sorely missed."
Steve Elworthy, CEO at Surrey CCC, said "Everyone associated with the Club is devastated by the tragic news of Graham’s passing.
"He achieved remarkable feats for club and country and was a hero to so many cricket fans.
"Our thoughts and condolences are with Graham’s family and friends, to whom we will offer any support that we are able to.
"We ask that everyone respects the privacy of the family at this incredibly difficult time."
In a May 2022 statement, the PCA said: "Graham Thorpe has recently fallen seriously ill and is currently in hospital receiving treatment.
"His prognosis is unclear at this stage and we ask for privacy for him and his family at this time."
The PCA added: "Our thoughts are with Graham and his family."
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