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Former England fast bowler David Lawrence, the first British-born Black cricketer to play for the Three Lions, passed away on Sunday at the age of 61.
Considered one of the most exciting pacers of his generation, Lawrence played five Tests and one One-Day International between 1988 and 1992 before a horrific knee injury sustained during a Test match in Wellington cut his career short.
Off the field, Lawrence was an advocate for diversity and inclusion in the game, and in recognition of his services to cricket, he was appointed MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours of 2025, and earlier this year, he was also named as one of the inaugural Honorary Life Vice-Presidents of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).
In 2023, Lawrence was diagnosed with motor neurone disease.
“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,” ECB Chair Richard Thompson said in a statement.
