Graham Paul Thorpe MBE played for England internationally and Surrey domestically. A left-handed middle-order batsman and slip fielder, he appeared in exactly 100 Test matches, scoring 21,000 first class runs and made 49 centuries, including 6,744 test runs (16 100’s). Overall he played 341 first class matches and 82 ODI’s.
He established himself as the most complete England batsman against pace or spin and was a brilliant counter-attacking left-hander who had the invaluable trait of starting of his innings with a quick 20 to seize the initiative.
He was the first England player to undergo ten consecutive years of winter tours.
Post career Graham has become one of the most respected coaches in the world.
His coaching experience started with stints in NSW, Australia in 2006-08 as assistant Coach/Batting coach and as assistant coach/batting coach with Surrey County Cricket Club from 2008-2011
Currently working as a lead National batting coach with England, since 2011, working with all England players in Test and ODI/T20 teams, he is quietly spoken , often away from the limelight, enormously popular and hardworking.
He also holds a key role to identify main batting talent coming through England U/19’s and England Lions squads.
He is credited with much of the identification and development of leading England players Joe Root, Ben Stokes, Jonny Bairstow and Jason Roy.
Highly qualified (currently finishing ECB level 4), Thorpe carrying enormous respect, has the potential to lead at the highest level.