Cricket star Thorpe, 52, ‘seriously ill’
FORMER England cricket hero Graham Thorpe was fighting for his life in hospital last night.
The 52-year-old batsman, who played 100 Tests for England between 1993 and 2005 as well as 82 one-day internationals, was described as being “seriously ill”.
Until February,Thorpe was England men’s batting coach – but he stepped down following the team’s 4-0 Ashes thumping by Australia.
He was appointed head coach of Afghanistan’s men’s team in March.
Thorpe had been scheduled to head to the country in coming weeks to begin work before a series against Zimbabwe.
The Professional Cricketers’ Association yesterday released a statement that said: “Graham 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.”
Surrey-born Thorpe, a stylish lefthander, scored 6,744 Test runs for England, including 16 centuries, at an average of 44.66.
Debut
He cracked an unbeaten 114 in the second innings on his Test debut against Australia and had a Test best score of 200 not out, made against New Zealand in 2002.
After retiring from playing in 2005, Thorpe then began coaching in Australia, working with New South Wales before then returning to England.
Surrey, where Thorpe spent his entire 17-year first-class career, said: “The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Graham, his wife Amanda and his family at this time.
“He is an icon of the English game, known by millions of cricket fans and he will be forever a favourite son of Surrey CCC.”
England Cricket tweeted: “All our thoughts are with Graham and his family.We’re with you,Thorpey.”
BBC Radio’s Test Match Special Team, who Thorpe has worked with over the years, wrote: “Wishing you all the best.”
He was honoured with an MBE in June 2006.