A recent inquiry revealed that Graham Thorpe, a former England and Wales Cricket Board coach, might have had a different outcome if he had received more support upon leaving his coaching position. Thorpe, a highly regarded batsman and England’s assistant coach until 2021, tragically took his own life in August last year after battling anxiety and depression for an extended period.
During an inquest at Surrey Coroner’s Court in Woking in July 2025, it was disclosed that Thorpe had struggled with depression following his dismissal as a batting coach in 2022 and had attempted suicide previously. Coroner Jonathan Stevens highlighted deficiencies in the care provided to Thorpe by healthcare professionals before his passing and ruled it as a suicide. Thorpe had been undergoing mental health therapy for 18 months before parting ways with the ECB.
Stevens acknowledged that the ECB had supported Thorpe by funding treatment, hospital stays, and extending his health insurance after he left in February 2022. Despite this, Amanda Thorpe, his widow, expressed her belief that additional efforts could have been made to ensure his well-being during the transitional phase.
Amanda Thorpe shared her sentiments on talkSPORT, emphasizing that if her husband had not experienced such a sudden loss in his cricketing career, he might have still been alive. She stressed the importance of having a support system in place to aid in the transition process, which she felt was lacking.
Furthermore, Amanda Thorpe criticized the remote support provided, describing it as inadequate and insufficient for her husband’s needs. She mentioned that despite seeking help, the assistance they received was not adequate.
The ECB has been reached out to for their input on the matter.
For anyone in need of support, The Samaritans offer a 24/7 helpline at 116 123 or can be contacted via email at jo@samaritans.org. Remember, you are not alone.