Tribute and Mental Health Awareness Mark 'A Day for Thorpey' Honoring Graham Thorpe at The Oval

On August 1, 2025, the cricketing world gathered at The Kia Oval in London to honor the celebrated England and Surrey batsman Graham Thorpe on what would have been his 56th birthday. The event, aptly named "A Day for Thorpey," paid tribute to Thorpe's outstanding career and also spotlighted mental health awareness, raising funds in support of the charity Mind.

Graham Thorpe, who passed away on August 4, 2024, after a prolonged battle with anxiety and depression, left a remarkable legacy in English cricket. Over a distinguished career spanning from 1988 to 2005 with Surrey and 182 appearances for England (100 Test matches and 82 One-Day Internationals), Thorpe scored over 6,700 Test runs and nearly 22,000 first-class runs.

During the commemorative event at The Oval — Thorpe's home ground during much of his playing days — limited-edition headbands, modeled on the iconic one he wore while batting, were sold at £5 each. These headbands were co-designed by Thorpe's wife Amanda and their daughters Kitty and Emma to raise money for Mind. They were made available for pre-order since July 21 and sold during the tribute day, with funds directed towards supporting the "Thorpey's Bat and Chat" initiative across England and Wales.

This initiative is a 12-week programme combining cricket training with open conversations about mental health, supervised by psychoeducation professionals. Its aim is to foster community and support mental well-being through the sport that defined Thorpe's life.

England cricket captain Ben Stokes was seen wearing the Thorpe-inspired headband during the Test match against India, symbolizing the deep respect and recognition of Thorpe's contributions both on and off the field.

Reflecting on Thorpe's struggle, his wife Amanda highlighted how his mental illness was unrelated to his physical fitness or admired mental strength on the field. Media reports and cricket commentators have emphasized the need to better understand mental health challenges in sports, noting that pressures such as life on tour and media scrutiny contributed to Thorpe’s hardships.

Cricket fans and observers have remembered Thorpe not only for his skill and grace under pressure but also for the human struggles behind his athletic achievements, fostering a legacy that combines sporting excellence with advocacy for mental health support.