The world of cricket has been left in shock following the tragic death of former England batsman Graham Thorpe, who took his own life earlier this year. A coroner's inquest has now revealed the heartbreaking details surrounding his suicide.
A Cricket Legend's Struggle
Thorpe, who played 100 Test matches for England between 1993 and 2005, had been battling severe mental health issues in the months leading up to his death. The 52-year-old was found unresponsive at his home in Wandsworth, London on 4 May 2022.
Coroner's Findings
West London Coroner's Court heard that Thorpe had been suffering from depression and alcohol dependency. His wife Amanda discovered his body after returning from walking their dog. Paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene.
The coroner, Chinyere Inyama, recorded a verdict of suicide, noting that Thorpe had left several notes indicating his intentions. "This was a deliberate act by someone who was clearly struggling with his mental health," Inyama stated.
A Glittering Career Cut Short
Thorpe was considered one of England's finest batsmen of the 1990s and early 2000s. After retiring from playing, he became a respected coach, working with the England team and most recently as head coach of Afghanistan's national side.
Mental Health in Cricket
This tragic incident has reignited discussions about mental health support in professional sports. Several current and former players have spoken out about the pressures faced by elite athletes.
The Professional Cricketers' Association released a statement saying: "We are devastated by the loss of Graham, a much-loved member of the cricket family. This serves as a stark reminder of the importance of mental health support."
Thorpe is survived by his wife and two children. Tributes have poured in from across the cricketing world, remembering him as both a brilliant player and a kind, generous man.
