Joe Root, the esteemed England cricketer, dedicated his 33rd Test century to England legend and former mentor Graham Thorpe, acknowledging the profound influence Thorpe had on his cricketing career. The emotional dedication came in the wake of Thorpe’s tragic passing earlier this month after a long battle with depression. Root’s poignant words paid homage to Thorpe, whom he described as a pivotal figure in his development and success.
During the second Test against Sri Lanka at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground, Joe Root delivered a masterclass innings, amassing 143 vital runs. After his century, Root spoke candidly about the significance of Thorpe’s mentorship in his career. “I’ve been very lucky to work with a lot of people, whether it be senior players, coaches, mentors, and Thorpey was one of those people who offered me so much,” said Root. “It was nice to be able to think of him (Thorpe) in that moment. He’s someone I’m sorely going to miss, and who I owe a lot to. He put a lot into my game, into my career, and without his help, I definitely wouldn’t be where I am now.”
Root revealed the depth of Thorpe’s belief in his potential, recounting how Thorpe fast-tracked him into playing for the England Lions. Thorpe’s insights and techniques left an indelible mark on Root, particularly his skills against both pace and spin bowling, which have since become signature strengths in Root’s illustrious career.
The relationship between Root and Thorpe began back in 2010 during a second-team game at Stamford Bridge, where Root represented Yorkshire against Surrey. “The first time I came across him was a second-team game at Stamford Bridge for Yorkshire against Surrey (in 2010),” Root recalled. “The following year, I made my way into the County Championship team, and he was involved with the England Lions. Before I’d even made a hundred at first-class level, he picked me for a Lions game against Sri Lanka at Scarborough.”
Thorpe’s keen eye for talent and Root’s relentless work ethic formed a formidable partnership. Together, they worked intensely on Root’s batting prowess.
. “He saw something in me and pushed hard for me to go away that winter and work with him. We worked tirelessly on my game against spin—being able to get close to the ball, get away from it, utilising different sweeps—and also against pace… working very hard to make sure that those areas of the game which are different to county cricket, you are up to speed with,” Root elaborated.
Root’s heartfelt dedication sparked a wave of reflections and tributes from the cricketing community, highlighting Thorpe’s wide-reaching impact on the sport. Not only did Thorpe contribute to the technical development of players like Root, but he was also a source of emotional support and strategic guidance.
Throughout his career, Root has achieved numerous records and accolades that fortify his legacy in cricket. His 33rd Test century adds to his distinguished resume, having recently surpassed two West Indies legends in different records with a fifty against Sri Lanka and leapfrogging premier batsmen like Rohit Sharma, Steve Smith, and Kane Williamson with his 49th international hundred.
Root’s journey exemplifies the essence of mentorship in sports, embodying the collaborative effort required for individual success. His words of gratitude and dedication to Thorpe underscore the profound influence a mentor can have on a burgeoning talent. “It’s moments like these when you really take stock and realize the importance of the people who have been part of your journey. Thorpey was monumental for me; his passing is a reminder of the struggles some people face off the field and the importance of looking out for each other,” Root said, his voice tinged with sorrow and respect.
Joe Root’s tribute to Graham Thorpe at Lord’s not only celebrated a cricketing milestone but also reverberated as a heartfelt acknowledgment of a mentor and friend whose legacy transcended the boundaries of the cricket field. The innings at Lord’s was as much a personal homage as it was a professional achievement, reminding the world of the significant impact behind-the-scenes figures like Thorpe have on the stars we see on the field.
The cricketing fraternity will undoubtedly remember Graham Thorpe for his contributions both as a player and as a mentor. His influence on Root and others will continue to resonate through the sport, leaving an enduring legacy of dedication, mentorship, and passion for cricket.
