Thorpe back at The Oval

Last updated: 4th November 2008

Thorpe back at The Oval

Thorpe: Experience Down Under

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Former England batsman Graham Thorpe has been signed by his former county Surrey to be their specialist batting coach next season.

Thorpe, who earned 100 England caps, spent 17 years at the Oval before retiring in 2005, after which he took up a coaching role with Australian state side New South Wales.

"Coaching in Australia has helped me a lot," he told Sky Sports News. "It doesn't matter how much you play, it's still very important to do an apprenticeship and build your knowledge as a coach.

"You can have all the runs under your belt in the world but you need to know how to apply it as well.

"Passion is ultimately the most important thing you need as a player and a coach.

"When I stopped being a player I had to have a look at coaching in Australia to see if I still had the passion and enjoyment to be a coach."

The left-hander, who will look after both the senior and academy players, added on Surrey's website: "I've been associated with the club for three decades, I'm passionate about Surrey doing well and am looking forward to working with the players, cricketing staff and everyone involved with Surrey to bring back success to the club as soon as possible."