Former England Fast Bowler Lawrence Dies At 61

Former England fast bowler David “Syd” Lawrence has passed away at the age of 61 following a courageous year-long battle with motor neurone disease (MND), his family announced on Sunday.

Lawrence, who made history as the first British-born Black cricketer to play for England, was diagnosed last year with MND a progressive neurological condition that leads to muscle deterioration and affects the brain and nerves.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dave Lawrence MBE (King’s Birthday Honours) following his brave fight against motor neurone disease,” his family said in a statement.

“Syd was an inspirational figure both on and off the cricket pitch. A proud Gloucestershire man, he faced every challenge in life with strength and determination, and his final battle with MND was no different. His selflessness and concern for others, even in his final days, was a true reflection of the man he was. As President of Gloucestershire County Cricket Club, he served with deep pride and passion, treasuring every moment of it.”

Lawrence, who played five Test matches for England, made 280 appearances for Gloucestershire, claiming 625 wickets for the county. He made his Test debut at Lord’s against Sri Lanka in 1988 and is best remembered for his standout performance — a five-wicket haul against the West Indies at The Oval in 1991.

In 2022, Lawrence made further history by becoming Gloucestershire CCC’s first Black president, and earlier this year, he was honoured as one of the inaugural Honorary Life Vice-Presidents of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).

ECB chairman Richard Thompson paid tribute to Lawrence, calling him “a true trailblazer of English cricket and a man of immense courage, character, and compassion.”

“His contributions to the game extended well beyond the field,” Thompson said. “As a fast bowler, he thrilled spectators with his speed and intensity. As a leader and advocate, he broke down barriers and championed inclusion and representation, becoming a powerful force for positive change in our sport.”