England to Honour Graham Thorpe in Emotional Test Series Opener
England's cricketers will pay a poignant tribute to the late Graham Thorpe before the start of the first Test against Sri Lanka at Old Trafford on Wednesday. The series opener will see a moving homage to the former batsman, who tragically took his own life on August 4th at the age of 55.
Thorpe, a revered figure in English cricket, left an indelible mark on the game. His batting prowess saw him average 44.66 in 100 Test matches, solidifying his place as one of the nation's greatest. He later transitioned into coaching, serving as England's batting coach and assistant coach until his departure following the 2021-22 Ashes tour.
During his time as a coach, Thorpe forged close bonds with many of the current England squad, particularly with Joe Root and Ben Stokes. Stokes, in his first Test as England's full-time captain, famously wore a shirt bearing Thorpe's name to the toss, a gesture that resonated deeply with the team and the wider cricketing community.
"We'll have our black armbands on throughout the game and there'll be a tribute to him before," said Ollie Pope, who will lead the team in Stokes' absence. "It's hurt a lot of people in the dressing room. He was a great man. I probably had two or three years playing with him as a batting coach, and I really admired him."
Pope recalled a poignant piece of advice from Thorpe: "Never let the runs you're scoring define you as a person." This message, shared during a difficult period for the young batsman, exemplifies the kind and empathetic nature of Thorpe, a man deeply respected and loved by those who knew him.
The teams will line up for a moment of applause before the national anthems, with a tribute video playing on the big screens at Emirates Old Trafford. Sky Sports will also dedicate a special segment to honour Thorpe, with many of their commentators having known him personally as a team-mate and friend.
The first day of the Test will also witness a celebration of James Anderson's illustrious career. The veteran fast bowler, who will be ringing the bell before play at the pavilion end of the ground named in his honour, is set to receive a special recognition for his remarkable contributions to English cricket during the lunch interval. Michael Atherton will present Anderson with a commemorative gift, acknowledging his outstanding achievements.
With the first two days of the Test already attracting a large crowd, exceeding 14,500 advance ticket sales, the series opener promises to be a moving and memorable occasion. The tributes to both Thorpe and Anderson will undoubtedly add an emotional layer to the already eagerly anticipated Test match.
