‘For Men To Talk’ mourns the loss of former England cricketer Graham Thorpe

It is with profound sadness that ‘For Men To Talk’ acknowledges the passing of Graham Thorpe, former England and Surrey cricketer, who tragically took his own life. The devastating news has left the cricket community and beyond in deep mourning.

Graham Thorpe, aged 55, died on 4 August after being struck by a train at a railway station. His wife, Amanda Thorpe, revealed that he had been battling depression and anxiety for several years.

Thorpe’s illustrious cricket career spanned from 1993 to 2005, during which he played 100 Tests for England and participated in 82 one-day internationals. Known for his exceptional skills as a batter, Thorpe amassed 6,744 Test runs, including 16 centuries, with an impressive average of 44.66. His contributions to the sport were significant, making his loss even more poignant.

The untimely death of such a high-profile individual underscores the pervasive and often silent struggle of mental health issues. Luke Newman, founder of ‘For Men To Talk,’ expressed his sorrow and emphasised the importance of addressing mental health challenges openly.

“Graham Thorpe’s passing is a stark reminder that mental health issues do not discriminate, affecting even those who appear to have it all. It’s crucial that we continue to provide support and create safe spaces for men to talk about their struggles,” Newman stated.

‘For Men To Talk’ is a dedicated men’s peer support group, offering a sanctuary for those suffering from anxiety, depression, and grief. The organisation provides various meeting formats, including physical, virtual, fishing, and walking sessions, to accommodate different preferences and needs.

The tragic loss of Graham Thorpe is a call to action for everyone to prioritise mental well-being and support those who may be silently struggling. ‘For Men To Talk’ remains committed to its mission of fostering open conversations and providing the necessary support to those in need.

In honouring Graham Thorpe’s memory, let us also pledge to break the stigma surrounding mental health and ensure that no one feels alone in their battles.