Thorpe, a former England cricketer who played 100 Tests and scored over 6,700 runs, tragically took his own life on August 4 at the age of 55, after battling with major depression and anxiety, as disclosed by his widow Amanda.
The decision to wear black armbands is a solemn gesture to honour Thorpe’s memory and acknowledge his significant contributions to English cricket.
Thorpe, who served as the batting coach for the England team, had a profound impact on many players, including Ollie Pope himself.
Pope, who will lead the team in the absence of regular captain Ben Stokes, expressed his admiration for Thorpe and the influential role he played in his career.
He fondly recalled Thorpe’s advice, which emphasized the importance of not allowing one’s self-worth to be defined solely by runs scored.
“I remember him saying one thing to me, which was: ‘Never let the runs you’re scoring define you as a person’. It shows, for me, what a people’s person he was. He was loved in the changing room. He’s such a sad loss to everyone—to the country, his family and the boys as well. He’s missed, and we’ll honour him this week,” Pope remarked.
The loss of Thorpe has deeply affected the England dressing room, with Pope describing him as a “great man” who was loved and respected by his teammates.
The tribute planned before the start of the first Test against Sri Lanka at Old Trafford Cricket Stadium on Wednesday, August 21, will provide an opportunity for the players to collectively honour Thorpe’s memory and acknowledge the profound impact he had on their lives and careers.
As the England team takes the field, the black armbands will serve as a visible symbol of their respect and gratitude for Thorpe’s contributions, as well as a reminder of the enduring impact he had on the lives of those he mentored and coached.