England to honor Graham Thorpe during first Test against Sri Lanka

England will pay a special tribute to the late Graham Thorpe during their first Test match against Sri Lanka, starting on August 21 at Old Trafford. Thorpe, who was 55 years old, tragically passed away earlier this month after battling anxiety and depression, as confirmed by his widow, Amanda.

Thorpe was a respected figure in English cricket, having represented the country in 182 international matches, including 100 Tests and 82 ODIs. After his playing career, he continued to serve the team as their batting coach, earning admiration and respect from players and colleagues alike.

Ollie Pope, standing in as captain for Ben Stokes during this Test, announced that the team will wear black armbands throughout the match in Thorpe’s memory. The team will also hold a tribute before the game begins.

"We'll have our black armbands on throughout the course of the game and there'll be a tribute to him before. It's hurt a lot of people in that changing room. He was a great man. I probably had two or three years playing with him as a batting coach. I really admired him," Pope said.

"I remember him saying one thing to me, which was: 'Never let the runs you're scoring define you as a person'. In a bit of a rut when you're young, that was exactly what I needed to hear. 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," he further added.

Before the start of the match, both teams will line up for a moment of applause in honor of Thorpe, followed by the national anthems. A tribute video celebrating Thorpe’s life and contributions to cricket will also be played on the big screens at the stadium. This gesture is intended to honor his legacy and acknowledge the impact he had on English cricket and the lives of those who knew him.