Veteran England batter Joe Root dedicated his stunning hundred from Day 1 of the second Test against Sri Lanka at Lord’s to his batting mentor Graham Thorpe, who died recently. He pointed to the sky after completing his century and later credit Thorpe for his success as well.
However, the news of Thorpe’s death came as a shock to everyone and particularly the current England team, given the role he had played in developing their careers as well. Thorpe had also officially served as the men’s team’s assistant and batting coach in two stints as well.

Speaking after the day’s play, Root said, “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. 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.”

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Joe Root steadied the ship for England on day 1 as Ben Duckett, Harry Brook, and Jamie Smith failed to build on their starts. He got out for 143, but England reached 358-7 by the end of Day 1, thanks to his contribution. Joe Root also equalled the legendary Alastair Cook’s record of most Test centuries for England by scoring his 33rd ton on Thursday, August 29 as 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. 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,” Joe Root concluded.