Thorpe unlikely to return for Surrey this season

Graham Thorpe has ruled out a return to first-class cricket with Surrey for the remainder of the season. The decision casts further doubt on his availability for England's tour of Australia this winter.

The 33-year-old Surrey left-hander decided to take a break from all cricket following England's 170-run first Test win over India at Lord's on July 29, a fortnight after retiring from the one-day international scene.

Thorpe said both decisions were taken to sort out his personal life, following the break-up of his marriage. His main priority is to spend time with his two young children, Henry and Amelia.

Hopes that Thorpe would return for Surrey before the end of the summer appear to have been dashed following a meeting with Surrey chief executive Paul Sheldon.

A Surrey spokesman confirmed: "It's extremely unlikely that Graham will play for Surrey again this season. The club have been very supportive of him during this difficult time and have no doubt he will return from this break reinvigorated and ready for next season."

Thorpe is highly regarded by the Australians, whose captain Steve Waugh said: "He's a class player and he has made a decision that's right for his family. You have to respect him for that. It's a courageous decision when you are playing for your country and he wouldn't have made it lightly. I just hope he comes back and plays Test cricket or one-day cricket again."

The Ashes party is due to be announced either before or after the final Test against India at the Oval, which starts on September 5.