‘Trailblazer’ David “Syd” Lawrence dies aged 61 after battle with MND

Former England and Gloucestershire fast bowler David “Syd” Lawrence has died at the age of 61 following a year-long battle with motor neurone disease (MND), his family confirmed today.

Born in Gloucester in 1964, Lawrence burst onto the scene for Gloucestershire at just 17. He played five Tests for England between 1988 and 1992, claiming 18 wickets. His career highlight was a memorable 5/106 against the West Indies at The Oval in 1991. However, a serious knee injury in Wellington ended his international aspirations and effectively curtailed his first-class career.

Despite the setback, Lawrence's legacy lived on. He took 625 career wickets for Gloucestershire and later became the club’s first Black president in 2022. He was also appointed as an ECB honorary life vice-president and was awarded an MBE earlier this year for his services to cricket and advocacy on inclusion.

Phil Tufnell, who played alongside Lawrence, remembered him on a: “He was a fierce competitor… an intimidating sight but with a very soft, warm heart.”

ECB chair Richard Thompson described him as “a true trailblazer of English cricket and a man of immense courage, character and compassion.”

At Headingley, where England currently host India, players and officials wore black armbands in a minute’s silence before play began today. The gesture underlined Lawrence’s impact on both domestic and international cricket.

Raw, gritty pace, perseverance and an explorer type spirit were hallmarks of David Syd Lawrence, who was a cricket pioneer with an even wider outlook. He made a mark that will never be forgotten as he went through ripping apart batsmen to being inclusive in his state and nation. He is sorely missed, but his work more than both hands and heart will keep on inspiring generations.