Graham Thorpe’s spouse believes that had he received more assistance from the England and Wales Cricket Board after leaving his coaching position, he might still be alive today.

Thorpe, a highly regarded batsman and former England assistant coach, tragically took his own life in August last year following a prolonged struggle with anxiety and depression. According to an inquest held in July 2025 at Surrey Coroner’s Court, Thorpe had descended into depression after being let go from his batting coach role in 2022, and had previously attempted suicide.

Coroner Jonathan Stevens highlighted deficiencies in the care provided to Thorpe by healthcare professionals in the months leading up to his passing, ultimately ruling his death as suicide. Thorpe had been undergoing therapy for mental health issues for 18 months before parting ways with the ECB.

Stevens acknowledged that the organization had supported Thorpe by funding treatments, hospital stays, and extending his health insurance post his departure in February 2022. However, Amanda Thorpe, his widow, expressed her belief that more could have been done to help him feel more supported during this transitional phase.

In an interview with talkSPORT, she mentioned that the abrupt end of his cricketing career had a profound impact on his mental well-being, emphasizing that a stronger support system could have made a significant difference in his life.

Amanda also criticized the remote support provided, deeming it insufficient and claiming that despite seeking help, it was not adequately delivered.

The ECB has been approached for a response.

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