Afghanistan are reportedly looking for a new head coach, with England legend Graham Thorpe still 'seriously ill'.
Thorpe was appointed Afghanistan head coach in March, having left his role as England's assistant coach in February following the Ashes. The 52-year-old was set to join up with Afghanistan in the last week of April but fell ill.
The Professional Cricketers' Association released a statement on behalf of Thorpe's family in early May revealing he had been hospitalised. The statement read: "Graham Thorpe has recently fallen seriously ill and is currently in hospital receiving treatment.
"His prognosis is unclear at this stage and we ask for privacy for him and his family at this time. Our thoughts are with Graham and his family."
In Thorpe's absence, Raees Khan Ahmadzai has stepped in as Afghanistan's interim coach and ESPNcricinfo are now reporting that Afghanistan are seeking a more permanent replacement.
The report states that Thorpe 'remains seriously ill and is not expected to return to work in the short term'. As a result, Afghanistan have begun a recruitment process and are expected to 'have a new head coach for the upcoming season'.
Earlier this summer, England paid a touching tribute to Thorpe, with captain Ben Stokes wearing a shirt with his name and cap number (564) on it ahead of the toss against New Zealand at Lord's. "Everyone is aware that Graham Thorpe is unfortunately very unwell in hospital at the moment," Stokes told Sky Sports.
"I've spoken with his wife, Amanda, and she has been very grateful and thankful for the respect and privacy that her family has received.
"Wearing this shirt is just me, on behalf of the England cricket team, showing support to him at this tough time because we all love Thorpey and he means a hell of a lot to us."
