Graham Thorpe's widow: 'He Would Still be Alive' had England Cricket Done More | talkSPORT Exclusive

"After this video was published the ECB decided to comment publicly on whether it was aware of the counsellors' recommendation of residential care after Graham's dismissal. The ECB now says it was not aware."

In an exclusive on-camera interview with talkSPORT, his widow Amanda Thorpe says if Graham had been offered ways of staying better connected to England cricket in the crucial months after his dismissal, “it is really clear (to her) that he would still be alive.” Thorpe, who played 100 tests for England, took his own life in August 2024, two and a half years after losing his England assistant coaching role.

In a statement to talkSPORT an ECB spokesperson described Graham as “a deeply admired and much-loved person.

“His loss has been felt deeply across the cricketing community and far beyond, and our thoughts and heartfelt sympathies remain with his wife Amanda, his children, and all those who loved him.”

“Graham’s passing is a heartbreaking reminder of the challenges many face with mental health.

“His death was examined by a Coroner; the inquest was held earlier this year with full support from the ECB.”

We have met with Amanda to discuss her concerns and have been in regular contact with her and the wider family.”

But Amanda Thorpe claims Graham felt totally let down by the ECB and, during his treatment, repeatedly told Amanda; “they’ve beaten me”.

She acknowledges that following her husband’s death, she and their daughter met with the ECB, but says they left in tears.

“It occurs to me that, unlike the other coaches' wives who’ve told me they’ve been on the wrong end of the ECB treatment, I don’t have a husband who needs to work in cricket anymore…so I can speak up.

But this is also about helping, you know, changing things and helping the next generation and making things better in the future.”

For anyone that's been affected by issues raised in this interview / programme and struggling to cope you can reach out to the trained professionals at Samaritans – they have a 24-hour helpline you can call – it’s 116 123 – that’s the Samaritans on 116 123. Or you can visit Samaritans dot org.

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