Graham Thorpe was open, honest with a self-depreciating humour and one of England’s best batsmen

GRAHAM THORPE, who has died aged 55, was England’s best batsmen between the end of David Gower’s career and the start of Kevin Pietersen’s.

Indeed, many reckon he was at least as good as either Gower or Pietersen.

ReutersEngland batter Graham Thorpe[/caption] PAThorpe was one of England’s best ever batsmen[/caption] PA:Press AssociationEngland and Surrey batsman Thorpe has died aged 55[/caption]

Thorpe was a nuggety left-hander who could attack or defend, display a carefree approach or iron-willed patience.