Former England cricketer Graham Thorpe took his own life after battling anxiety and depression for years, his family has confirmed.
Thorpe died on August 5 at the age of 55.
The left-handed player played 100 Test matches and 82 one-day internationals for England, scoring over 9,000 runs for his country, including 16 Test centuries.
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Graham Thorpe looks back on his career after his death
His wife Amanda told Michael Atherton the times: “Despite having a wife and two daughters whom he loved dearly and whom he loved dearly, his condition did not improve.
“He had been very unwell recently and he truly believed we would be better off without him and we are shocked that he did this and took his own life.
“For the past few years, Graham had suffered from severe depression and anxiety.
“This led to him making a serious attempt in May 2022, which resulted in him spending a long time in intensive care.
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England Test captain Ben Stokes reflects on Thorpe’s death after news of his death was announced
“Despite seeing glimpses of Hope and the old Graham, he still suffered from depression and anxiety, which sometimes became severe.
“We as a family supported him and he tried many, many treatments, but unfortunately, none of them really worked.
“Graham is known for his mental toughness on the field and for being in good physical health. But mental illness is a real illness that can affect anyone.”
The family now plans to set up a foundation in Graham’s memory.
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Thorpe’s former teammates Dominic Cork and Mark Butcher have paid tribute to the late cricketer
Graham and Amanda’s eldest daughter Kitty, 22, said: “We’re not ashamed to talk about it. There’s nothing to hide and there’s no shame in it.”
“Now is the time to share this news, no matter how horrific it is. He loved life and he loved us, but he just couldn’t see a way out. He wasn’t the same person anymore.”
“It was strange to see this man trapped in his father’s body. That’s why we were so happy because we did a lot of reflection on his life before he got sick.
“I’m glad that everyone remembers him that way, and it’s right because he was a complete character.”
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Former England captain David Gower praised Thorpe’s “determination and will to win”
Wife Amanda added: “Graham was a free spirit. My favorite memory of him is in Barbados, where he loved to enjoy rum punch after swimming and listen to his favorite reggae music.
“He was handsome, so handsome. He was funny and he made us all laugh.”
Considered one of the best players of his generation, Thorpe transitioned into coaching after retiring in 2005 and served as England batting coach from 2010 to 2022.
Thorpe was appointed Afghanistan head coach in March 2022 but did not take up the role due to ill health.
If you are affected by these issues or want to talk, contact Samaritans on the free helpline 116 123 or visit the website www.samaritans.org
