On August 5, the cricketing world was shaken by the news of Graham Thorpe’s death at the age of 55. The former England cricketer, renowned for his batting prowess, had been battling severe depression and anxiety. His widow, Amanda Thorpe, has now revealed that Graham took hi??s own life, despite his love for his family and his ongoing struggle with mental illness.

Amanda Thorpe’s heartfelt account

Amanda shared the profound impact of Graham’s struggles, emphasizing the deep pain his death has caused. She described how, despite his love for his wife and two daughters, Graham felt overwhelmed by his mental health challenges. “Despite having a wife and two daughters whom he loved and who loved him, he did not get better. He was so unwell in recent times and he really did believe that we would be better off without him, and we are devastated that he acted on that and took his own life,” Amanda told to Michael Atherton in the Times.

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Graham Thorpe’s battle with mental illness

Thorpe’s wife detailed his ongoing battle with depression and anxiety, which had led to a serious suicide attempt i?n May 2022. Despite receiving extensive treatment and showing some signs of recovery, Thorpe continued to struggle with his mental health.

Amanda recounted, “For the past couple of years, Graham had been suffering from major depression and anxiety. This led him to make a serious attempt on his life in May 2022, which resulted in a prolonged stay in an intensive care unit. Despite glimpses of hope, he continued to suffer.”

Tributes and personal memories

The cricketing community has been inundated with tributes to Thorpe, and a ceremony was held in Farnham to honor his memory. Amanda Thorpe also shared a cherished personal memory, contrasting with the public persona of her husband. She recalled, “Graham was a free spirit. My favourite memory of him is in Barbados, enjoying a rum punch and listening to his favourite reggae after a swim. He was handsome, so handsome. He was funny and he made us all laugh so much.”

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Former England captain Michael Atherton has named as the ideal replacement for Matthew Mott as England‘s head white-ball coach.

ECB announces Matthew Mott’s departure 

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) recently revealed that?? Mott has stepped down ??from his role following a series of underwhelming performances.

England’s disappointing campaigns in the ODI Cricket World Cup 2023, where they finished in seventh place, and the T20 World Cup 2024, where they lost in the semi-finals, led to Mott’s resignation. With the search for a new head coach now underway, Marcus Trescothick has been appointed as an interim coach w??hile other candidates are considered.

Michael Atherton names the perfect candidate

Now Atherton shown his support towards former cricketing great Andy Flower for the coaching job. Flower, whose tenure with England saw them achieve significant milestones including their first T20 World Cup victory and a top Test ranking, is seen as a prime candidate to rejuvenate the team’s white-ball fortunes.

In his column for The Times, Atherton reflected on Flower?’s notable achievements in franchise cricket, whi?ch he believes make Flower an excellent fit for the role.

“Flower transformed Multan Sultans in the Pakistan Super League; won the Abu Dhabi T10; took St Lucia to their first CPL final; and won the Hundred with Trent Rockets. These successes demonstrate Flower’s ability to adapt and excel in various competitive environments, skills that are crucial for the white-ball role,” Atherton wrote.

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Evolution since previous tenure

Despite previous criticism??s of Flower’s intensity, A??therton suggested that Flower has likely evolved since his last stint with England.

“Flower has changed, too. He is said to have mellowed somewhat, possibly due to age or the evolving dynamics of player power. His extensive experience across different coaching roles has broadened his approach, making him potentially more adaptable and effective,” Atherton observed.

Managing workload

Flower’s current coaching role with the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) could p??resent a challenge in balancing both commitments. However, Atherton argues that managing both roles could be fea?sible.

“International jobs are less sought after than before, and Flower’s IPL commitment might be a sticking point. However, there is no international cricket during the IPL window, and Flower’s involvement in the IPL can keep him attuned to emerging trends and players, benefiting his role with England,” Atherton concluded.

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On Friday (May 24), The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced an impressive roster of commentators for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024, ensuring fa??ns receive comprehensive coverage and expert analysis throughout the tournament

Comprehensive coverage across two nations

With 55 matches set to be played across nine different venues in the West Indies and the United States, the T20 World Cup promises a thrilling display of cricketing action. From iconic stadiums like Kensington Oval in Barbados to new venues like Eisenhower Park in New York, the tournament will showcase the best of cricketing talent on the international stage. The commentary team’s presence ensures that fans worldwide will have access to in-depth analysis and captivating commentary, enriching their viewing experience and deepening their appreciation for the sport.

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A diverse mix of cricketing talent

Among the notable names featured are Ravi Shastri, Nasser Hussain, Ian Smith and Harsha Bhogle, renowned figures in the cricketing world known for their insightful commentary and deep understanding of the game. The list further included the likes of Dinesh Karthik, Ebony Rainford-Brent, Samuel Badree and Carlos Brathwaite adds a unique perspective to the commentary team, offering firsthand experience of the tournament’s high-stakes matches.

The commentary panel boasts a diverse mix of cricketing talent, with representation from various cricketing nations and backgrounds. From Indian stalwarts like Ravi Shastri and Harsha Bhogle to international legends like Ricky Ponting, Sunil Gavaskar and Eoin Morgan, viewers can expect a wide range of perspectives and insights on display. Additionally, the inclusion of American commentator James O’Brien, known as Jomboy, marks a significant step towards expanding the sport’s reach in non-traditional cricketing markets, further enhancing the global appeal of the tournament.

Here’s the list of commentator for the T20 World Cup 2024:

1. Indian Commentators:

• Ravi Shastri
• Harsha Bhogle
• Sunil Gavaskar
• Dinesh Karthik

2. Australian Commentators:

• Ricky Ponting
• Matthew Hayden
• Tom Moody
• Lisa Sthalekar
• Steve Smith
• Aaron Finch

3. English Commentators:

• Nasser Hussain
• Michael Atherton
• Alan Wilkins
• Eoin Morgan
• Brian Murgatroyd
• Ian Ward
• Ebony Rainford-Brent

4. West Indian Commentators:

• Ian Bishop
• Carlos Brathwaite
• Samuel Badree
• Darren Ganga

5. New Zealander Commentators:

• Simon Doull
• Ian Smith
• Katey Martin
• Danny Morrison

6. South African Commentators:

• Dale Steyn
• Shaun Pollock
• Natalie Germanos
• Mike Haysman
• Graeme Smith
• Kass Naidoo

7. Zimbabwean Commentator:

• Mpumelelo Mbangwa

8. Pakistan Commentators:

• Ramiz Raja
• Wasim Akram
• Waqar Younis

 9. Ireland Commentators:

• Niall O’Brien

10. American Commentators:

• James O’Brien (Jomboy)

11. Sri Lanka Commentator:

• Russel Arnold

12. Bangladesh Commentator:

• Athar Ali Khan

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In a riveting display of skill and mastery during the second Test in Visakhapatnam against England, Jasprit Bumrah, India‘s pace spearhead, emerged as a relentless force, inflicting substantial trouble upon the England batters in both innings. The contest unfolded as a saga of cricketing brilliance, marked by Bumrah’s extraordinary performance that left an indelible mark on the match and the series at large.

Jasprit Bumrah’s bowling masterclass class against England in Visakhapatnam Test

As the second Test commenced, England found themselves at one stage in a strong position at 114/2 in response to India’s formidable first-innings score of 396. However, the narrative took a dramatic turn with the entry of Bumrah into the bowling attack. Displaying an exceptional spell of reverse-swing bowling, he orchestrated the downfall of the visitors, bundling them out for 253. Bumrah’s figures of 6/45 in 15.5 overs showcased his dominance and showcased his unparalleled ability to dismantle even the most resilient batting lineups.

The fourth innings witnessed a repeat performance of Bumrah’s brilliance as England, tasked with chasing a challenging target of 399, faced the relentless onslaught of the pace maestro. Bumrah emerged once again as the chief destroyer, claiming three crucial wickets that played a pivotal role in scripting India’s resounding 106-run victory. His total tally of nine wickets in the match rightfully earned him the pr??estigious Player-of-the-Match award.

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Michael Atherton reveals crucial weakness in Ben Stokes and Joe Root’s technique

Speaking to Sky Cricket, former England captain Michael Atherton, in the aftermath of the game, extolled the virtuosity of Bumrah, emphasizing the unsettling impact of his extraordinary skills on even the most accomplished English batters. Atherton’s analysis delved into the challenges faced by Ben Stokes, a seasoned campaigner, in coping with the sheer pace and precision of Bumrah’s deliveries. The scrutiny extended to Joe Root, England’s stalwart, who found himself repeatedly at the mercy of Bumrah’s cricketing genius.

“Picking with the speed of the ball is tough with him and I’ve noticed with Stokes, even Stokes actually is an excellent player of fast bowling. He’s hurried with Bumrah. He struggles to pick up the pace, and a couple of times when he’s got him, it looks as though the ball has kept low, which has but it also almost beaten him for pace as well,” Atherton said.

“I think that’s the issue with Bumrah. A kind of stuttering run-up and suddenly like a thunderbolt at 90 miles an hour. So, if you’re a person like Root who has kind of pre-movements. Some batters like Zak Crawley for example stand very still, he just stands there and plays the shot. Whereas most batters have triggers or pre-movements, and Root is one of those, he has kind of rhythmical back and forward and that I think is the problem,” the 55-year-old concluded.

India vs England

With the series finely poised at 1-1, following England’s triumph in the first Test in Hyderabad and India’s emphatic comeback in the second, the cricketing fraternity eagerly anticipates the unfolding drama in the upcoming third Test scheduled to commence in Rajkot on February 15. The stage is set for another chapter of enthralling cricket, as both teams vie for supremacy in this engrossing five-match series.

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When it comes to modern-day cricket, which is adorned with a constellation of talent from around the globe, there are few luminaries that shine as brightly as the titans who grace the field with their unparalleled skill and charisma. As the sport evolves and embraces new dimensions, one figure consistently commands the spotlight, captivating audiences with his prowess and passion. Recently, England legend Michael Atherton shed light on the towering presence of this cricketing colossus, hailing him as the “biggest star” of contemporary cricket.

The modern-day cricket pantheon: Icons of the game

In a landscape where the boundaries of achievement are continually pushed, modern-day cricket boasts an array of stalwarts who have etched their names in the annals of the sport. From the imperious batting of Steve Smith, Joe Root and Kane Williamson to the explosive power of Chris Gayle and Rohit Sharma, the cricketing world is replete with icons who redefine the boundaries of ex?cellence with each stroke of the bat or delivery bowl?ed.

Michael Atherton identifies the premier superstar

Amidst this galaxy of stars, Atherton’s discerning eye recently singled out a figure whose influence transcends boundaries and resonates with fans around the world. Atherton’s admiration was directed towards none other than Virat Kohli, the talismanic Indian cricketer whose name rev??erberates across stadium??s and continents.

“He is by far the biggest star in the game here. The supporters are often drawn to the superstars of the game, and there is none bigger than Virat Kohli here,” said Atherton during Sky Sports Cricket Vodcast.

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Atherton’s admiration for Kohli extends beyond his cricketing exploits and delves into the very fabric of his persona on and off the field. He termed the Indian phenom as the magnetic and charismatic cricketer who tends to attract each and everyone with a mere presence on the field even if he’s not playing.

“I find him a fascinating batter to watch. I find him an absolutely fascinating cricketer in general. When he is on the field, even when he is not contributing, he just buzzes around with so much energy. He is a very magnetic and charismatic cricketer,” Atherton added.

Kohli has so far played 113 Tests, 292 ODIs and 117 T20Is for India, in which he has amassed 8848, 13,848, and 4037 runs, respectively. He has managed to slam 29 Test tons, 50 ODI hundreds and one ??century in the shortest format.

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As England prepares to face India in a momentous five-match Test series, the team led by Ben Stokes as a captain and head coach Brendon McCullum anticipates one of its most challenging assignments. Having reshaped the dynamics of Test cricket and demonstrated prowess against formidable opponents, England now confronts the spin-friendly conditions in India. The duo of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja poses a significant challenge on turning tracks, testing England’s adaptability.

Michael Atherton’s prediction regarding the winner between India and England

Speaking to Sky cricket, renowned former England cricketer Michael Atherton shared his perspective on the impending Test series against India. Emphasizing the pivotal role of spin in Indian conditions, Atherton believed that India, led by Rohit Sharma, possesses a distinct advantage, primar??ily due to their formidable spin bowling unit and are the cl?ear favourites to win the series.

“I think India will win. Their spinners are better than England’s, and that will be the defining thing in the end. If you go to India, spin will play a big part. It historically has done, and I suspect it always will do. India do have a very strong seam attack as well,” Atherton said.

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A formidable record

India will enter the five-game Test seri?es against England with an impressive record at home, having secured victory in 16 consecutive Test series since their 2012 loss to England. Notably, this included comprehensive triumphs over England in 2016-17 (4-0) and 2021 (3-1).

The streak underscores India’s prowess in home conditions and sets the stage for a challenging series for England. The series opener is scheduled at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad on January 25, adding anticipation to this high-stakes cricketing encounter.

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