Graham Thorpe resigns as England's assistant coach, Joe Root to continue as Test captain

England’s assistant coach Graham Thorpe has resigned from his position following the Ashes debacle which the team lost 0-4 in Australia. On Thursday (February 3), Chris Silverwood was also sacked by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). The interim arrangements for the upcoming tour of West Indies will be made soon. The fallout of the poor show from England started with Ashley Giles, ECB’s managing Director, stepping down from his position.

Meanwhile, Andrew Strauss, who has taken over as the Managing Director for the time being, has confirmed that Joe Root will continue as the captain of the Test team. A lot of questions were raised on his captaincy following the team’s loss especially in Melbourne where Boxing Day Test was played. But Root himself was clear in his mind that he wanted to continue and also got the backing of his teammates.

“Having spoken to him, it is absolutely clear the extent of his commitment to taking this England cricket team forward. He has got incredible motivation and energy to do that. He is bruised, hugely disappointed by what went on in the Ashes – that goes without saying and many others are in the same boat – but he has the respect of the players, they all play for him and obviously he sets a magnificent example both on and off the field,” Strauss said according to Sky Sports.

Strauss thanks Thorpe for his contribution

Andrew Strauss also thanked Graham Thorpe for his contribute to England’s Test team during his tenure as the assistant coach. “I’d like to thank Graham for his work over many years on the England coaching staff and wish him the best for the future,” he said according to ECB’s official website.

Thorpe also considered himself fortunate to have spent his time in the dressing room during this period. “I’ve been very fortunate to have worked with so many good players and coaches who I consider my friends for life,” he said.