Thorpe died from train collision, inquest reveals

England's 55-year-old left-handed batter took his own life

LONDON:

Former England cricketer Graham Thorpe tragically died after being struck by a train at a Surrey railway station, as revealed in the opening of an inquest into his death. The 55-year-old, known for his prowess as a gifted left-handed batter and his reputation as one of the best players of his generation, took his own life.

The British Transport Police reported that officers were called to Esher railway station at 8:26 am on August 4 following reports of a casualty on the tracks. Paramedics attended the scene, but sadly, Thorpe was pronounced dead. The incident is not being treated as suspicious.

Thorpe's death was confirmed by the England and Wales Cricket Board on August 5, prompting an outpouring of tributes from the cricketing community and fans alike.

At Surrey Coroner's Court in Woking, Area Coroner Simon Wickens expressed his "sincere condolences" to Thorpe's family and all those who were touched by his life and career during the inquest at Surrey Coroner's Court in Woking.

In the wake of his passing, Thorpe's family has been commended for their openness about his mental health struggles. His wife, Amanda Thorpe, previously disclosed that he had been battling "major depression and anxiety" for several years. She highlighted the importance of recognizing mental illness as a serious condition, regardless of physical health or mental strength on the cricket field.

Despite the love and support of his wife and two daughters, Thorpe's mental health continued to deteriorate. Amanda shared her heartbreak, stating, "He was so unwell in recent times and he really did believe that we would be better off without him, and we are devastated that he acted on that and took his own life."

One of Thorpe's daughters, Kitty, emphasized the family's desire to destigmatize mental health issues.

"There is nothing to hide and it is not a stigma. We were trying to help him get better before and trying to protect him, which is why we said nothing. This is the time now to share the news, however horrible it is.