Graham Thorpe - Press statement on Ashes tour

Graham Thorpe today issued the following statement:

"I have informed the selectors that I wish to withdraw from the tour to Australia.

During the 6 weeks away from the game my personal situation did improve and I felt that I was able to make myself available for the tour.

Since returning to the game I have found it difficult to consistently concentrate on cricket and I must be totally focused for the tour. I therefore feel it is better to be honest with the England cricket team, the management, and myself now, rather than during the Ashes tour.

It would be wrong for me to go to Australia purely for the financial gain that it would bring me whilst I am finding it difficult to fully focus on the job in hand 100% of the time.

This has been the hardest decision of my cricket career. I ask that I may be given the respect and privacy required so that I may recover to play cricket at highest level next season."

Paul Sheldon, Surrey County Cricket Club Chief Executive stated:

"It is best for everyone concerned that a final decision over this winters tour has been made now. We will continue to do everything we can to help Graham through this very difficult time. Surrey is his cricketing home and we will be in very close touch throughout the winter."