Emotional Tribute to Graham Thorpe as Joe Root Reaches Centuries Mark

Joe Root paid an emotional tribute to Graham Thorpe, who passed away a year ago, saying his celebration of his 39th Test hundred was a "thank you" for everything his mentor had given English cricket. Root, who was a pall-bearer at Thorpe's funeral last August, celebrated his life when reaching an outstanding century, removing his helmet, kissing the three lions badge, and raising his bat. He then took his gloves off and took out a headband that had been on sale at The Oval, Thorpe's home ground, as part of a Surrey and England campaign that has raised over £150,000 for Mind, the mental health charity.

Key Takeaways:

• Joe Root paid tribute to Graham Thorpe, saying his celebration of his 39th Test hundred was a "thank you" for everything his mentor had given English cricket.
• Root removed his helmet, kissed the three lions badge, and raised his bat to celebrate his 105 not out, but was "bitterly disappointed" to be dismissed soon after.
• The headband that Root wore was part of a Surrey and England campaign that has raised over £150,000 for Mind, the mental health charity, founded by Thorpe's family to raise awareness and support for mental health.
• Root's teammates, including Chris Woakes, who is struggling with a dislocated shoulder, have shown their appreciation for Thorpe's influence on their careers.
• England need just 35 runs to win, but are six wickets down, with the injured Chris Woakes poised to bat for England if required.
• Root expressed confidence that England have the players to get over the line, despite being in a precarious position, and praised the team's resilience throughout the series.

Statistics:

• Joe Root scored 105 not out, his 39th Test century, drawing praise from his teammates and fans for his emotional celebration.
• The headband that Root wore was sold as part of a Surrey and England campaign to raise money for Mind, the mental health charity, which has so far raised over £150,000.
• Chris Woakes dislocated his shoulder on the opening day and will bat for England if required, despite being in a huge amount of pain.
• England are six wickets down, but need just 35 runs to win, and are confident that they have the players to get over the line.

Sources:

• "Joe Root: Players don't get the love they need for mental health" by BBC Sport
• "England's Joe Root and Chris Woakes unite for a shining tribute to Graham Thorpe" by ESPN Cricinfo
• "Mind charity: Graham Thorpe's family launches campaign to raise awareness and support for mental health" by The Guardian