In the world of cricket, where careers are made and legends are born, mentorship often plays a pivotal role in shaping a player’s journey. One such profound mentor-mentee relationship existed between England’s star batsman Joe Root and the late Graham Thorpe, a former England cricketer and coach.
This bond was profoundly evident when Root dedicated his record-equalling 33rd Test century to Thorpe, who passed away recently at the age of 55. Thorpe’s influence on Root’s career was monumental, and his death left a void that the English batsman felt deeply.
Joe Root’s Tribute to Graham Thorpe
Joe Root’s century, scored against Sri Lanka at Lord’s, was more than just another milestone. It was a heartfelt tribute to his long-term batting mentor, Graham Thorpe. As Root reached his century, he pointed to the skies, a poignant gesture that signaled his dedication of the feat to Thorpe. In an emotional interview following his impressive innings of 143, Root expressed how Thorpe had been a significant influence on 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 that offered me so much,”
Root said. “It was nice to be able to think of him in that moment. He’s someone that I’m going to sorely miss. He put a lot into my game, into my career, and without his help, I definitely wouldn’t be where I am now.”
The Mentor Who Saw Root’s Potential Early On
Thorpe was not just a coach but a guiding force in Joe Root’s career trajectory. His belief in Root’s potential was evident long before the latter became a household name in cricket. Recalling his early interactions with Thorpe, Root mentioned,
“The first time I came across him was a second-team game at Stamford Bridge for Yorkshire against Surrey [in 2010]. 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 foresight and faith in Root’s abilities were instrumental in Root’s development as a batsman, especially against challenging conditions. Thorpe not only identified Root’s potential but also worked diligently with him, enhancing his skills against both spin and pace bowling.
“He saw something with me, and pushed hard for me to go away that winter and worked with him. We worked tirelessly on my game against spin – being able to get close to the ball, get away from it, utilizing different sweeps – and also against pace,” Root explained.
This early and intensive coaching played a significant role in shaping Root’s technique and resilience, qualities that would later define his international cricketing career.
Thorpe’s Role in Root’s Test Debut
Graham Thorpe’s influence on Root’s career wasn’t limited to just improving his skills. He was also a key advocate for Root’s early elevation to the England Test team. Thorpe’s support was crucial in Root being selected for England’s tour to India in 2012, where he made his debut in the fourth Test in Nagpur.
This match, which ended in a draw, helped England secure a historic 2-1 series win. Root credited Thorpe for his early push into the national team, stating,
“From that point onwards, we worked together. He became England’s white-ball batting coach, and then obviously in the Test team as well. I worked so hard at a number of different things.”
A Mentor Beyond Cricket: Thorpe’s Personal Impact on Root
Beyond the realm of cricket, the kinship between Joe Root and Graham Thorpe extended far and wide. Thorpe was not just a coach but also a confidant and friend who understood the pressures and demands of international cricket. Root reflected on Thorpe’s enduring presence in his career, saying,
“You’re always having to evolve as a player, and you need people that you can bounce ideas off, people that can take pressure off you in different ways, and know how to talk to you when things aren’t going well – and also when they are going well. I was very lucky to have someone like him… he was the one guy that was constant throughout that 10, 11, 12-year period.”
Root’s deep respect and affection for Thorpe were evident when he spoke about their relationship.
“I could go to him under pressure, and I have a really good understanding of my own game and it evolved into more: I became good friends, and I really enjoyed spending a lot of time with him. It was nice to pay a small tribute. It’s nothing, but he means a lot to me – and that was a small thank you,” Root remarked.
This heartfelt tribute underscores the profound impact Thorpe had on Root’s personal and professional life.
Read out the Full Story on the ESPNcricinfo.
Stay informed about the fixtures and results of the 2024 Sri Lanka tour of England, as well as the squads for both teams participating in the series.
The Legacy of Graham Thorpe
Graham Thorpe’s untimely death earlier this month was a shock to the cricketing world. His family revealed that he had been battling major depression and anxiety, highlighting the often-unseen struggles faced by even the most successful individuals.
Thorpe’s career, both as a player and a coach, left a lasting impact on English cricket. He was widely regarded as one of England’s best batters and his contributions off the field, especially in nurturing talents like Joe Root, have cemented his legacy.
Joe Root’s heartfelt dedication of his 33rd Test century to Graham Thorpe stands as a testament to the enduring impact a mentor can have on a player’s journey, shaping both their career and personal life.
Thorpe’s belief in Root’s potential, his guidance in honing his skills, and his unwavering support throughout his career were instrumental in Root’s success.
As Root continues to build his legacy in the cricketing world, the imprint of Thorpe’s mentorship will always be a significant part of his journey. The story of Root and Thorpe serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of mentorship, friendship, and the human connections that lie at the heart of sports.
FAQs
1. Why did Joe Root dedicate his century to Graham Thorpe?
Joe Root dedicated his century to Graham Thorpe to honor his late mentor’s profound impact on his career. Thorpe played a crucial role in developing Root’s batting technique and offering guidance throughout his professional journey.
2. What was Graham Thorpe’s role in Joe Root’s career?
Graham Thorpe was instrumental in identifying Joe Root’s talent early in his career. As a batting coach and mentor, Thorpe provided technical guidance, helped Root adapt to international cricket, and supported him throughout his growth as a player.
3. How did Graham Thorpe contribute to English cricket?
Thorpe, one of England’s finest batsmen, dedicated his post-playing career to coaching and mentoring. He was deeply involved with the England Lions and senior teams, nurturing young talent and contributing to the development of England’s batting lineup.
4. What message does Joe Root’s tribute convey about mentorship in sports?
Root’s tribute underscores the significant role mentors play in the careers of athletes. It highlights the importance of having experienced, supportive figures who can offer guidance, emotional support, and technical advice, shaping not just the athletes’ careers but their personal growth as well.
5. What is the significance of Root’s 33rd Test century?
Root’s 33rd Test century is significant not only because it equaled a record but also because it symbolized a heartfelt tribute to a mentor who shaped his cricketing journey, emphasizing the value of mentorship and personal connections in sports.
