David ‘Syd’ Lawrence, the first British-born black cricketer to play for England, has died at the age of 61.
It was revealed almost exactly a year ago that Lawrence, who took 18 wickets in five Tests for England between 1988 and 1992, was the latest sportsperson to be diagnosed with motor neurone disease.
The announcement was in the same month ex-England and Leeds rugby league great Rob Burrow died after a long battle with the incurable illness, which progressively damages parts of the nervous system.
A statement from Lawrence’s family given to the PA news agency said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dave Lawrence MBE following his brave battle with motor neurone disease.
“‘Syd’ was an inspirational figure on and off the cricket field and no more so than to his family who were with him when he passed.
“A proud Gloucestershire man, Syd took on every challenge with everything he could and his final contest with MND was no different. His willingness to encourage and think of others right up to the end was typical of the man he was.”
As well as his six outings for England – having played a lone ODI against the West Indies at Lord’s in 1991, collecting four for 67 – Lawrence bagged 625 wickets in 280 matches for Gloucestershire.
A strapping fast bowler who was renowned for being one of the quickest on the county circuit, Lawrence began to establish himself in Tests and a five-for against the West Indies in 1991 helped England seal a series-levelling win at the Oval, with Desmond Haynes and Viv Richards among his haul.
But Lawrence’s career all but ended the following year as he badly fractured his kneecap after falling awkwardly when running into bowl on the final day of a Test against New Zealand in Wellington.
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His England days were immediately over aged 28 but he made a brief county comeback in 1997, playing four first-class games for Gloucestershire before hanging up his boots – 16 years after he first played professionally.
Lawrence became a competitive bodybuilder following his retirement and he was also a nightclub owner in Bristol.
After Lawrence detailed his experiences of racism during his playing career, Gloucestershire issued an unreserved apology in September 2021 and six months later he became the county’s first black president.
The county side posted on X: “Gloucestershire are devastated to learn of the passing of former player and club president, David ‘Syd’ Lawrence MBE, aged 61.
“Everyone at Gloucestershire would like to send their best wishes to David’s family during this terribly sad time.”
Following his MND diagnosis, there were emotional scenes when Gloucestershire went all the way in the T20 Blast last year, with captain James Bracey presenting the trophy to Lawrence at Edgbaston.
Lawrence’s family statement added: “As president of Gloucestershire County Cricket Club, Syd took on the role with incredible pride and passion and loved every minute of it.
“Syd’s wife Gaynor and son Buster thank everyone for the kindness and support that has been shown to them and the family so far and would ask that they are now given some time and space to grieve in private.”
Only last week, Lawrence received an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours for his outstanding services to cricket, while he had been working to raise money and awareness of his condition.
He said: “It is an incredibly proud moment. It is not something that I ever thought would sit after my name, but I am absolutely delighted that it will do so for however long I am here and will be a part of my legacy when I am gone.”
Lawrence’s MND diagnosis hastened his autobiography as he worried he would lose the ability to speak. Titled ‘In Syd’s Voice’, written with the help of Dean Wilson, the book was published this month.
England and Wales Cricket Board chair Richard Thompson said on the governing body’s website: “David ‘Syd’ Lawrence was a true trailblazer of English cricket and a man of immense courage, character, and compassion.
“His impact on the game extended far beyond the boundary ropes. As a fast bowler, he thrilled crowds with his pace and passion. As a leader and advocate, he broke barriers and inspired change, becoming a powerful voice for inclusion and representation in our sport.
“Even in the face of his illness, David showed extraordinary strength and dignity, continuing to uplift others with his resilience and spirit. He leaves behind a legacy that will endure in the hearts of all who love cricket.
“Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and the entire cricketing community at this time.”
