David Lawrence, England's first British-born black cricketer dies aged 61 after MND battle

Former England and Gloucestershire fast bowler David 'Syd' Lawrence passed away, aged 61 on Saturday.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) hailed Lawrence as a 'pioneering fast bowler whose career and character left an indelible mark on English cricket' in its tribute. Lawrence was the first British-born black to represent England in international cricket and appeared in five Tests and an ODI between 1988 and 1992, claiming 22 wickets.
'Lawrence brought raw pace, aggression, and a fierce competitive spirit to the international stage.. his finest moment coming in 1991 when he took 5-106 against the West Indies at The Oval,' the ECB stated.
Lawrence's international career was tragically cut short in 1992 by a horrific knee injury sustained during a Test match in Wellington, New Zealand.
In June 2024, Lawrence was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND), a terminal condition that affects the muscles. 'With those three words my heart hit the floor and then it seemed like my body fell with it,' Lawrence wrote in his autobiography, In Syd's Voice, published earlier this month.
In recognition of his services to cricket and the community, Lawrence was appointed MBE in the King's Birthday Honours of 2025.
Earlier this year, Lawrence was also named one of the inaugural Honorary Life Vice-Presidents of the ECB.
'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,' ECB Chair Richard Thompson said in a statement.
'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.
Despite his limited international career, Lawrence lit up the domestic circuit and was considered one of the quickest pacers around in his generation. In 185 First-Class games, Lawrence amassed 515 wickets besides snapping up 155 List A wickets in 115 games.

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