FARNHAM — In an emotional tribute at Farnham Cricket Club, the family of England legend Graham Thorpe — wife Amanda and daughters Kitty and Emma — opened up about his struggles with mental health and the critical role played by the Cricketers’ Trust in supporting them through tragedy.
“The Cricketers’ Trust were there for us… they were amazing,” said Amanda. “We were in turmoil trying to think of what to do as a family and then we were told what support the Trust offers.”
A career of grit and greatness
Thorpe, a left-handed batter known for his grit and resilience, represented England in 100 Tests and 82 ODIs. He scored 16 Test centuries, captained the national team, and went on to coach England between 2010 and 2022.
Admired for his toughness in the middle order, Thorpe’s legacy spans 700 professional matches. But off the field, he silently battled mental health challenges that intensified after the end of his coaching tenure.
“We love talking about Graham”
During the heartfelt conversation led by family friend Mark Butcher and filmed by Sky Sports, the Thorpes shared memories of both joy and pain.
“He was just a normal guy with a great sense of humour,” Amanda recalled. “So humble.”
Daughter Emma shared, “He knew how to bring you back to the real world. He was always positive.”
Kitty added, “I didn’t realise until he passed how much love there was for him. I wish he knew that.”
The turning point: mental health struggles after cricket
The 2021/22 Ashes tour proved pivotal in Thorpe’s decline. Losing his job with the England team deeply affected him, as his family shared.
“We noticed a real difference,” Emma explained. “He was more reserved.”
Kitty added, “He saw losing his job as a failure. He didn’t cope well mentally.”
“He had anxiety and depression,” Amanda said. “It was horrible to see.”
Cricketers’ Trust steps in after crisis
In May 2022, Graham attempted to take his own life. The Cricketers’ Trust, the players’ charity supporting health and wellbeing for PCA members and their families, intervened immediately.
“You don’t know where to go, but they came to us,” Amanda recalled. “They were amazing.”
Thorpe received residential care through Sporting Chance, with his family witnessing brief moments of hope during recovery.
“There were moments we thought he was back,” Emma said. “But then it would go away and be difficult.”
“It was like your hopes got dashed,” Amanda added. “Just glimpses of who he used to be.”
“You feel powerless” — the need for support
As Thorpe’s mental health declined, the support from the Cricketers’ Trust remained constant.
“You need people like those at the Trust,” said Kitty. “When you’re looking for help, you’re already in a bad place.”
After Thorpe’s death in August 2023, the Trust continued to provide grief counselling and therapy to his wife and daughters.
“I’m still receiving sessions at university,” said Kitty. “It’s been lovely. I felt looked after.”
Emma added, “I had online therapy before and after. It helped to talk without any shame.”
Message to others: speak up, reach out
Butcher ended the tribute by asking the family what advice they would give others going through a similar crisis.
Amanda: “He was so loved. Don’t retreat. Don’t shut people out.”
Kitty: “Talk about it, share the load, reach out.”
Emma: “Talking about grief really helps. Conversations matter.”
The Cricketers’ Trust continues to support the physical and mental wellbeing of past and present players and their families — including therapy, equipment, and emergency financial assistance.
To donate to the Cricketers’ Trust or seek support:
- Visit the Cricketers’ Trust
- Call the 24-hour Confidential Helpline: 07780 008 877
If you are struggling, you are not alone. Contact Samaritans at 116 123 (UK) any time.
