"Without his backing, I may not....": Root opens on relationship with late Graham Thorpe

Manchester [UK], August 21 (ANI): Star England batter and former captain Joe Root hailed late English great Graham Thorpe, noting that he would have not enjoyed such a brilliant career with the Three Lions without his backing.

England players will pay tribute to the late batter before the start of the first Test match against Sri Lanka at Manchester on Wednesday. The teams will be lining up for a moment of applause before