Cricket Star Graham Thorpe's Tragic Death Sparks Inquest into Mental Health Support

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Graham Thorpe, the former England cricketer and coach, struggled with suicidal thoughts and depression after being dismissed from his job, an inquest heard. His widow, Amanda Thorpe, revealed her husband's mental health decline began in 2020, during the lockdown period, and worsened after a video he shared with friends was leaked and caused adverse publicity. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) dismissed Thorpe in February 2022, which his family believes triggered his downward spiral into depression. Thorpe died on August 4 last year after being struck by a train.

Key Takeaways:

  • Graham Thorpe struggled with suicidal thoughts and depression after being dismissed from his job by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) in February 2022.
  • Thorpe's mental health decline began in 2020 during the lockdown period, and his family believes the adverse publicity surrounding a leaked video contributed to his downward spiral.
  • Thorpe's GP, Dr Joan Munnelly, testified that he suffered a brain injury after attempting to take his own life in 2022.
  • The ECB extended Thorpe's private health insurance cover until May 2022, yet he attempted to take his own life in May, and his private health care team had their last contact with him in June 2022.
  • Thorpe's father, Geoff Thorpe, said the leaked video had "caused catastrophic damage" to his son and "ultimately led to his job loss," which triggered his depression.
  • Prof Nick Pierce, the ECB's chief medical officer, stated that there was "no point during Graham's time at ECB had there been any concern regarding a risk of self-harm or intent to end life."
  • Graham Thorpe, who was awarded an MBE in 2006, played 100 tests for England and hit 16 centuries.

Statistics:

  • Graham Thorpe played 100 tests for England.
  • He hit 16 centuries in his 100-test career.
  • Thorpe was awarded an MBE in 2006.
  • The ECB dismissed Thorpe from his job in February 2022.
  • The leaked video that caused adverse publicity was from early 2022.
  • Thorpe died on August 4 last year.

Sources:

  • Mrs. Amanda Thorpe, Graham Thorpe's widow, as quoted in the Daily Mirror on [no date provided].
  • Dr Joan Munnelly, Graham Thorpe's GP, as quoted in the Surrey coroner's court inquest.
  • Geoff Thorpe, Graham Thorpe's father, as quoted in the Daily Mirror on [no date provided].
  • Prof Nick Pierce, the ECB's chief medical officer, as quoted in the Surrey coroner's court inquest.
  • The Daily Mirror, [no date provided].