Joe Root Scores Century, Pays Tribute to Graham Thorpe at Oval Test

Joe Root paid a heartfelt tribute to former England cricketer and coach Graham Thorpe during the fifth Test against India at The Oval, by wearing Thorpe's signature headband after scoring his 39th Test century. Thorpe, who passed away in 2022 by suicide after battling mental health issues, had a profound impact on Root and the England team, inspiring a week-long homage and fundraising efforts for mental health charities. Root's emotional gesture highlighted growing concerns about mental health in cricket amid the pressures of modern formats. England, propelled by Root's chanceless 105 and Harry Brook's 111, came close to a historic run chase, needing 35 runs with six wickets down. Injured all-rounder Chris Woakes, suffering from a dislocated shoulder, is prepared to bat if needed to help secure the series. The match is notable for being the first five-Test series since 2017-18 where every game has gone into the final day, intensifying the dramatic climax at The Oval.