Thorpe announces retirement

22 July 2005

Graham Thorpe has retired after winning 100 Test caps for England © Getty Images

Graham Thorpe has given notice to the England and Wales Cricket Board that he wishes to retire from international cricket.

Thorpe, 35, became only the eighth England player to play 100 Test matches for his country - reaching the milestone against Bangladesh at Durham in June 2005.

The Surrey left-hander said: “My partner is having a baby in the next couple of weeks and I have decided that I want to concentrate on my family life.

“I have enjoyed my time with England and I have wished them every success in this Ashes series. I am proud to have been part of this successful era in English cricket.”

David Graveney, chairman of England selectors, paid tribute to Thorpe, saying: “Graham was one of the leading players of his generation and that is reflected by the fact that he has collected 100 caps.

“You can judge what a feat that is by looking at the list of other players who have reached that number of appearances. He will be remembered as a tenacious batsman who served England with great ability and great pride.”

Graham Thorpe career facts:

Test career
Born: August 1, 1969 Farnham, Surrey
Test debut: England v Australia, Nottingham, 3rd Test, 1993
Last Test: England v Bangladesh, Durham, 2nd Test, 2005
Tests: 100
Innings: 179
Not out: 28
Runs: 6744
Highest score: 200 not out v New Zealand (Christchurch, 2002)
Average: 44.66
Catches: 105

One-day international career
ODI Debut: England v Australia, Manchester, Texaco Trophy, 1993
Last ODI: England v Sri Lanka Leeds, NatWest Series, 2002
Matches: 82
Innings: 77
Not out: 3
Runs: 2380
Highest score: 89 v Zimbabwe 1994/5
Average: 37.18
Catches: 42