A recent investigation revealed that the late Graham Thorpe’s widow is convinced that more support from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) could have potentially saved his life. Thorpe, a revered batsman and former England assistant coach, tragically took his own life in August last year after battling anxiety and depression.
During an inquest at Surrey Coroner’s Court in Woking, it was disclosed that Thorpe had struggled with depression following his dismissal as a batting coach in 2022, and had previously attempted suicide. The coroner, Jonathan Stevens, pointed out deficiencies in the care provided to Thorpe by healthcare professionals leading up to his death, ultimately ruling it as suicide. Thorpe had been undergoing mental health therapy for 18 months prior to departing from the ECB.
Stevens acknowledged that the ECB had supported Thorpe by financing treatments, hospitalizations, and extending his health insurance coverage post his departure in February 2022. Nonetheless, Amanda Thorpe, his widow, feels that more could have been done to aid his transition and emotional well-being during that period.
In an interview with talkSPORT, Amanda expressed her belief that had her husband received better support during the challenging career transition, he might still be alive today. She criticized the remote assistance provided as inadequate and emphasized the need for a stronger support system to help individuals like Thorpe navigate such significant life changes.
Amanda highlighted that despite seeking help and expressing the need for more support, it was not adequately provided. The ECB has yet to comment on the matter.
For those in need of someone to talk to, The Samaritans offer round-the-clock support. They can be reached for free at 116 123, via email at jo@samaritans.org, or by visiting their website to locate the nearest branch. Remember, your well-being matters.