It’s easy to toss around the word “love” in sports, but I use it intentionally here because it perfectly captures how his teammates from Surrey and England felt about him.
In the England team of the 1990s and early 2000s, Thorpe was more than just a colleague—he was my closest friend. The ease and comfort I felt around him were unmatched.
I genuinely loved having him on the team, and the sentiment was mutual. He embodied everything we aspired to have in our squad, reflecting exactly what Duncan Fletcher and I envisioned.
When Duncan and I began our leadership roles in 1999, we talked about prioritizing character over mere stats in our selection process. I asked Darren Gough what he valued in a teammate.
His response was telling: “When I see Thorpey, I know he’s ready for the fight.”
I shared this observation.
Whether it was seeing him head to the crease or waiting for him to arrive, Thorpe’s resilience was apparent. He was known for grinding out runs and never shying away from a challenge.
Fans especially admired him for his courage.
Despite our struggles around the turn of the century, Thorpe’s fearless approach sent a clear message to opponents: “You might have beaten us before or may do so in the future, but not today.”
Off the field, Thorpe was just as remarkable.
I often found myself in his hotel room, tinkering with bat handles and chatting about cricket.
It felt like a natural fit that the person I was closest to was also present during my career highs—like when we scored 207 and 138 against Australia in 1997, celebrated a Test win in Karachi in 2000, or shared my final run as an England player in 2004.
He was also a constant support during my lowest points, whether I was questioning my abilities or contemplating quitting. Thorpe was always there to offer comfort or a reality check, often with a dose of tough love.
Thorpe was wonderfully unconventional.
He’d often defy norms, like when attending official functions in grey trousers instead of the required black. His non-conformity extended to his approach to the game as well. During the 1999 World Cup, he famously refused to attend a function, saying, “I’m here to play cricket and focus on making runs.”
His attitude was a driving force behind many of our victories.
His debut against Australia in 1993 was a key moment for both of us, and from there, our partnership flourished.
A Unique Relationship
I never remember us having a serious falling out, though I did once give him a stern talking-to in the dressing room. It was all part of our dynamic. I knew he could handle it, and it sent a clear message to the rest of the team about the importance of attention to detail.
We complemented each other perfectly.
While I often needed calming and support, Thorpe had a unique ability to provide it. Team spirit isn’t just about clapping from the balcony; it’s about the feeling of unity when stepping onto the field.
A Legacy of Versatility and Dedication
Thorpe’s skill set was extraordinary. He could adapt his game to different conditions, whether scoring quickly or grinding out a long innings. His versatility was his genius.
His meticulous preparation, like scuffing up the nets in Colombo before our historic win in Sri Lanka, showcased his dedication and work ethic.
He was not only a talented cricketer but also someone who inspired many to take up the sport. His distinct style and approach left an indelible mark on the game.
A Lasting Influence
Graham Thorpe’s impact on cricket and on those who knew him is immeasurable. His style, personality, and dedication inspired countless players. As we remember him, we feel a profound loss. Rest in peace, my friend. You will be greatly missed.
TDPel Media
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