Graham Thorpe's widow: England icon would still be alive if cricket bosses did more
### Graham Thorpe's Widow: England Icon Would Still Be Alive If Cricket Authorities Had Acted
Amanda Thorpe, widow of former England cricketer Graham Thorpe, has voiced her heartbreaking belief that her husband would not have passed away if cricket leadership had taken more responsible actions. Graham Thorpe, a celebrated figure in English cricket, tragically passed away in 2024, with his widow asserting that failures within the sport contributed to his struggles.
The circumstances surrounding Thorpe’s death have brought renewed attention to the importance of mental health support within professional sports. Amanda highlighted that her husband was already in a precarious situation, saying he "was really teetering on the edge on that tour." This statement indicates the severity of his condition and the lack of adequate resources available to players facing mental health challenges.
Coroner Jonathan Stevens reaffirmed the impact of the cricket community on Thorpe's well-being, stating that he "had lost his cricket family," suggesting that the alienation from his peers and support structures significantly affected his mental state. Stevens also noted that the situation "had a devastating effect on him," underlining the grave consequences of neglecting mental health issues in sports.
The call for enhanced support and proactive measures in professional cricket is growing louder, as Amanda Thorpe emphasizes the need for cricket authorities to take responsibility. This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the vital role that governing bodies play in safeguarding the mental health of athletes.