LONDON, Aug 20: England look set to travel to Australia later this winter without Graham Thorpe following an announcement by his county, Surrey, that he is “extremely unlikely” to play for them again this season.

Thorpe, 33, decided to take an indefinite break from all cricket after England’s first Test victory over India at Lord’s in July.

His move was prompted by the break-up of his marriage and discussions about access arrangements to his young children, Henry, 5 and Amelia, 3.

However England hoped that the left-handed middle-order batsman would return before the end of the season to press his claims for selection.

But given that England coach Duncan Fletcher has said that Thorpe cannot be picked “out of the blue”, his chances of selection now appear to be hanging by a thread.

Earlier this season Thorpe announced his retirement from international one-day cricket in a bid, he said, both to ease his personal problems and prolong his Test career.

Then came the announcement of his break from all forms of the game. The news that he will not be playing again this season is sure to intensify speculation over his international future.

And yet even those who question his commitment to the England cause cannot dispute his record on the field.

Australia captain Steve Waugh, in England as Kent’s replacement overseas player for the rest of the season, paid tribute to Thorpe.

“He’s a class player and he has made a decision that’s right for his family.

“You have to respect him for that,” said Waugh. “It’s a courageous decision when you are playing for your country and he wouldn’t have made it lightly.—AFP