England fielders, along with commentators and officials, were seen wearing white headbands on day two of the fifth India Test in honour of former England and Surrey cricketer Graham Thorpe.
August 1 marks what would have been Thorpe’s 56th birthday, and the occasion is being observed as “A Day for Thorpey”, a celebration of his life, legacy, and enduring impact on the game.
Thorpe, who passed away last August at the age of 55, had long battled depression and anxiety. His death, by suicide, came after a difficult period that included health issues and mental health struggles, particularly during the Covid-affected 2021–22 Ashes tour, where he served as part of England’s coaching setup.
His wife, Amanda Thorpe, reflected on the toll the Covid-era restrictions had on him: “Working in the Covid bubbles, he found that tough. He wasn't great at following rules at the best of times. It was all very stressful, and he wasn't great on that trip.”
Why are England players and officials wearing white headbands?
The white headbands honour Thorpe’s trademark look, famously revealed when he removed his helmet after reaching a century. Designed by his wife and daughters, Kitty and Emma, the headbands are being sold at the venue to raise funds for the mental health charity Mind. Proceeds will support an initiative, “Thorpey’s Bat and Chat,” which promotes mental wellbeing through cricket. It aims to create a safe space for individuals struggling with mental health to connect, share, and engage in the game.
“My dad was quite a private person, so for us to share his and our experience is important to help other people who have gone through similar things,” said Emma Thorpe. “To start a conversation, to reduce the shame and stigma that are around these conversations.”
Thorpe remains one of England’s most accomplished Test batters, having scored 6,744 runs at an average of 44.66 in 100 Tests. He made an unforgettable debut against Australia in 1993, becoming the first England player in two decades to score a century on debut. Following his playing days, he turned to coaching, serving with both Surrey and the ECB, before being appointed head coach of Afghanistan, a position he never assumed due to his deteriorating health.
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