“Tragic news”: Cricket legend dies at just 55
England cricket great Graham Thorpe has passed away aged just 55.
The England and Wales Cricket Board confirmed the news on Monday, with no immediate cause of death announced.
He was regarded as one of the best batters of his generation, with a career that spanned 100 Test matches.
“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Graham Thorpe, MBE, has passed away,” a statement from the ECB said.
"There seem to be no appropriate words to describe the deep shock we feel at Graham's deaths.
"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. The cricket world is in mourning today.
"Our hearts go out to his wife Amanda, his children, father Geoff, and all of his family and friends during this unimaginably difficult time.
"We will always remember Graham for his extraordinary contributions to the sport."
Thorpe made his international debut in 1993 and scored a century on his first Ashes appearance, becoming the first England player to do so in 20 years.
He played 82 one-day international games for England and amassed over 6700 runs in the Test arena, including 16 centuries.
After retiring from playing duties in 2005, Thorpe transitioned into coaching and spent time as a batting coach for the national side between 2010 and 2022.
He was set to take over the head coaching role with Afghanistan before falling ill.
Tributes have poured in from Thorpe's fellow teammates and former coaches.
“RIP Thorpey. Thanks for all the advice throughout my career, you were a great player and a brilliant teammate. You have gone far too young but you leave as an England cricket legend ... Thoughts with all who knew Thorpey and to all the family xxx,” Michael Vaughan, who captained Thorpe towards the end of his Test career, wrote on social media.
Former Australian coach Darren Lehmann paid tribute by tweeting three tear emojis.
“Heartbreaking to see Thorpey has passed away. He was one of my heroes growing up and I was fortunate to work with him. My thoughts go out to all of his friends and family during this tough time,” wrote current England opener Ben Duckett.
“This is desperately tragic news. Aged just 55," Channel 7 commentator Alison Mitchell said.
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