England cricket star Graham Thorpe took his own life, according to his wife.
Thorpe, 55, died earlier this month, with Surrey CC announcing his death on August 5. However, his wife, Amanda, has now said he took his own life after several years of battling anxiety and depression.
She told The Times: “Despite having a wife and two daughters whom he loved and who loved him, he did not get better. He was so unwell in recent times and he really did believe that we would be better off without him and we are devastated that he acted on that and took his own life.”
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She added: “For the past couple of years, Graham had been suffering from major depression and anxiety. This led him to make a serious attempt on his life in May 2022, which resulted in a prolonged stay in an intensive care unit.
“Despite glimpses of hope and of the old Graham, he continued to suffer from depression and anxiety, which at times got very severe. We supported him as a family and he tried many, many treatments but unfortunately, none of them really seemed to work.
(Image: Popperfoto via Getty Images)
“Graham was renowned as someone who was very mentally strong on the field and he was in good physical health. But mental illness is a real disease and can affect anyone.”
Thorpe played for England in 100 Test Matches and 82 One Day International games – during that time he was named as Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1997 after smashing back-to-back centuries as the top scorer of the Ashes.
Oli Slipper, Chair at Surrey CCC said “Graham is one of the great sons of Surrey and there is an overwhelming sadness that he will not walk through the gates of the Oval again. He is a legend of Surrey and brought great pride to the Club wearing both the Three Feathers and the Three Lions.
“He made outstanding contributions to the Club as a cricketer, and as a man, and he will be so sorely missed.”
Steve Elworthy, CEO at Surrey CCC, said “Everyone associated with the Club is devastated by the tragic news of Graham’s passing. He achieved remarkable feats for club and country and was a hero to so many cricket fans.
“Our thoughts and condolences are with Graham’s family and friends, to whom we will offer any support that we are able to. We ask that everyone respects the privacy of the family at this incredibly difficult time.”
For emotional support, you can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website.