David “Syd” Lawrence, the former England fast bowler and pioneering figure in British cricket, has died at the age of 61 following a courageous year-long battle with motor neurone disease (MND).
Lawrence made history as the first British-born Black cricketer to represent England, earning five Test caps between 1988 and 1992. His fiery pace and wholehearted commitment made him a crowd favourite, most notably when he claimed a five-wicket haul against the West Indies at The Oval in 1991.
Born in Gloucestershire, Lawrence enjoyed a distinguished county career with his beloved Gloucestershire CCC, for whom he made 280 appearances and took 625 wickets. His debut for England came at Lord’s against Sri Lanka in 1988, but a horrific knee injury during a Test match in Wellington in 1992 tragically curtailed his international career.
Off the field, Lawrence remained a vibrant and passionate servant to the game. In 2022, he became Gloucestershire’s first Black president, a role he carried out with distinction and deep pride. Earlier this year, he was appointed one of the inaugural Honorary Life Vice-Presidents of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), reflecting his enduring influence on the sport.
His family, in a statement, said: “Syd was an inspirational figure on and off the cricket field… 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.”
ECB chairman Richard Thompson paid tribute, describing Lawrence as “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,” Thompson added. “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.”
In recognition of his services to cricket and the community, Lawrence was awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours.
David “Syd” Lawrence is remembered not only for his contributions with the ball but for his fearless spirit, dignity, and dedication to making cricket a game for everyone. He is survived by his family, friends, and the countless individuals he inspired throughout his life and career.