Former England cricketer and coach Graham Thorpe has died at the age of 55, the ECB have announced.
Thorpe is considered one of England’s best ever batters, having amassed 6,744 runs and 16 centuries in exactly 100 Test matches.
The left-hander was one of English cricket’s most prolific players at first-class level, making more than 21,000 runs during his 17-year spell at Surrey.
Thorpe became the first England player in 20 years to score a hundred on debut in 1993 and was a mainstay in the team for the next decade before being dropped ahead of the iconic 2005 Ashes series.
The much-loved cricketer went on to take up coaching positions with England, New South Wales and his county Surrey after retiring.
A statement from the England and Wales Cricket Board said: ‘It is with great sadness that we share the news that Graham Thorpe, MBE, has passed away.
‘There seem to be no appropriate words to describe the deep shock we feel at Graham’s death.
‘More than one of England’s finest-ever batters, he was a beloved member of the cricket family and revered by fans all over the world.
‘His skill was unquestioned, and his abilities and achievements across a 13-year international career brought so much happiness to his teammates and England and Surrey CCC supporters alike.
‘Later, as a coach, he guided the best England Men’s talent to some incredible victories across all formats of the game.
‘The cricket world is in mourning today. Our hearts go out to his wife Amanda, his children, father Geoff, and all of his family and friends during this unimaginably difficult time.
‘We will always remember Graham for his extraordinary contributions to the sport.’
Surrey chair Oli Slipper 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, added: ‘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.’