At Lord’s, Joe Root’s 33rd Test century against Sri Lanka represented more than just a win for his storied career. It was a moving remembrance of his friend and late mentor, Graham Thorpe. In addition to showcasing his batting ability, Root’s century honored a person who was instrumental in influencing his cricket career.
A Tribute to a Mentor
As Joe Root celebrated reaching three figures, he looked skyward, dedicating his achievement to Thorpe, who died earlier this month. I’ve been very lucky to work with a lot of people, whether it be senior players, coaches, or mentors, and Thorpey was one of those people who offered me so much, reflected Joe Root. His admiration and gratitude to Thorpe were well in line when he admitted the amount of difference Thorpe had made in his career.
The above-mentioned innings of 143 by Root were important in the recovery of England from a precarious position of 130/4. By the close of play, England had reached 358/7. An important innings for his team, it was also a milestone for him because it acted as a kind of tribute to one who had been a guiding force in his life.
Remembering the Influence
Thorpe’s impact on how Joe Root approached his game was deep. He remembered how Thorpe had been on at him to perfect his technique, particularly against spin and pace. He saw something with me and pushed hard for me to go away that winter and worked with him, said Root. The guidance of Thorpe was instrumental in helping Root adjust his game for international cricket.
Root made his debut in 2012 during England’s tour of India. Over the years, his career has seen many highs, and his latest century stands tall as a testimony to his growth as a cricketer. Yet, let’s not say it-it goes without saying that with all these achievements, Thorpe’s loss hit him hard.
Supporting His Teammates
Aside from reflecting on his journey, Root also spared the time to rally around his stand-in captain, Ollie Pope. Pope, leading the side in Ben Stokes’s absence, has found the series difficult. Joe Root sprang to the defense of Pope, essentially underscoring that interest in his struggles was probably overblown. It’s so easy to make something when it isn’t at all, Root said in support of his teammate.
Joe Root Dedicates Lord’s Century to Thorpe
The tribute of Root to Thorpe is not only about the game of cricket, it upholds the very essence of mentorship and how a mentor can change a player’s career for good. Thorpe’s presence in Root’s life speaks volumes about the bonding that forms in this sport. While Joe Root continues to chase records, thereby contributing so much to the success of England, the memory of Graham Thorpe will always be a guiding light. The Lord’s Century was not an individual piece of gratification but an act of tribute to the mentor who had played a monumental role in shaping his career.
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