London, July 21 (UNI) The life and legacy of former England and Surrey cricketer Graham Thorpe will be commemorated on August 1, the second day of the final men’s Test match between England and India at the Kia Oval, in an event titled ‘A Day for Thorpey.’
The tribute will mark what would have been Thorpe’s 56th birthday. The legendary left-hander committed suicide on August 4 last year at the age of 55 after a prolonged struggle with anxiety and depression. The event aims not only to celebrate his cricketing achievements but also to raise awareness and funds for mental health, in partnership with the charity ‘Mind.’
Thorpe, who featured in 100 Test matches for England and enjoyed a distinguished career with Surrey County Cricket Club, later served in various coaching roles with both the national and county teams. Widely respected for his technical skill and grit, he remains one of the most admired figures in English cricket.
To honour his memory, special edition headbands — designed to resemble those worn by Thorpe while batting — will be sold to raise funds for Mind. Co-designed by his wife Amanda and daughters Kitty and Emma, the headbands will be available for pre-order starting July 21 through shop.mind.org.uk and Mind’s eBay store. They will also be sold at the Kia Oval on August 1 for £5 each.
In addition, a JustGiving page and a text-to-donate facility have been launched to support the cause. Supporters can text THORPEY5, THORPEY10 or THORPEY20 to 70255 to donate £5, £10 or £20 respectively.
Funds raised will go toward expanding the “Thorpey’s Bat and Chat” programme, a 12-week initiative combining cricket with psychoeducational mental health support, originally piloted by Burton and District Mind. The project will now be extended across England and Wales through local Mind branches and county cricket foundations.
Kitty Thorpe reflected on the stigma around suicide: “Death and grief aren’t talked about enough. When you add the layer of suicide, it becomes even more taboo. We’re working with Mind to change that.”
Emma Thorpe added: “My dad was a private person, but sharing his and our experiences is important to help others and reduce the shame and stigma around mental health.”
Dr Sarah Hughes, CEO of Mind, praised the family’s courage: “The loss of Graham deeply saddened us. Amanda, Kitty and Emma have spoken with immense strength. Their openness helps others going through similar struggles. It is an honour to work with them on ‘A Day for Thorpey’.”
Oli Slipper, Chair of Surrey CCC, said: “Graham was a true legend. Celebrating him at his home ground feels fitting. We hope this day raises crucial awareness and support for mental wellbeing.”
The tribute at the Oval is expected to unite the cricketing world in remembrance of Thorpe, not just as a formidable batsman, but as a symbol of the pressing need to address mental health in sport and beyond.
