Trisha Ghosal in London
On 1st August, The Kia Oval is celebrating “A Day for Thorpey”. It’s former England great Graham Thorpe’s 56th birthday. On 4th August last year, Thorpe took his own life after struggling with anxiety and depression.
Thorpe was a brilliant batter, but he was also a deep thinker of the game and a fine coach. One cricketer who gained a lot in his career thanks to Thorpe’s coaching is none other than England great — and safe to say, the No. 1 in the Fab Four — Joe Root.
Last year, after Thorpe’s passing, Root dedicated his 33rd Test century to his coach and friend. Today, as England and India took the field on Day 2 of the fifth Test of the series, Root, standing at first slip, was seen wearing the headband dedicated to Thorpe.
After his 33rd Test century, Root had said, “Thorpey was one of those people who offered me so much. It was nice to be able to think of him in that moment. He’s someone I’m sorely going to miss and who I owe a lot to. He put a lot into my game, into my career and without his help I definitely wouldn’t be where I am now.” (Source: The Guardian)
Today too, Root chose to honour his late friend and coach by wearing the headband. It’s very likely Root will bat today. When he eventually does, he will want to make his coach proud of him.
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