David ‘Syd’ Lawrence, the primary British-born black cricketer to play for England, has died on the age of 61.
It was revealed nearly precisely a yr in the past that Lawrence, who took 18 wickets in 5 Assessments for England between 1988 and 1992, was the newest sportsperson to be recognized with motor neurone illness.
The announcement was in the identical month ex-England and Leeds rugby league nice Rob Burrow died after a protracted battle with the incurable sickness, which progressively damages elements of the nervous system.
An announcement from Lawrence’s household given to the PA news company mentioned: “It’s with nice disappointment that we announce the passing of Dave Lawrence MBE following his courageous battle with motor neurone illness.
“‘Syd’ was an inspirational determine on and off the cricket area and no extra so than to his household who had been with him when he handed.
“A proud Gloucestershire man, Syd took on each problem with every part he might and his remaining contest with MND was no completely different. His willingness to encourage and consider others proper as much as the tip was typical of the person he was.”
Enjoying Profession
In addition to his six outings for England – having performed a lone ODI in opposition to the West Indies at Lord’s in 1991, accumulating 4 for 67 – Lawrence bagged 625 wickets in 280 matches for Gloucestershire.
A strapping quick bowler who was famend for being one of many quickest on the county circuit, Lawrence started to determine himself in Assessments and a five-for in opposition to the West Indies in 1991 helped England seal a series-levelling win at the Oval, with Desmond Haynes and Viv Richards amongst his haul.
Gloucestershire Cricket is devastated to study of the passing of former participant and Membership President, David ‘Syd’ Lawrence MBE, aged 61.
However Lawrence’s profession all however ended the next yr as he badly fractured his kneecap after falling awkwardly when working into bowl on the ultimate day of a Take a look at in opposition to New Zealand in Wellington.
His England days had been instantly over aged 28 however he made a quick county comeback in 1997, enjoying 4 first-class video games for Gloucestershire earlier than hanging up his boots – 16 years after he first performed professionally.
Lawrence grew to become a aggressive bodybuilder following his retirement and he was additionally a nightclub proprietor in Bristol.
After Lawrence detailed his experiences of racism throughout his enjoying profession, Gloucestershire issued an unreserved apology in September 2021 and 6 months later he grew to become the county’s first black president.
The county aspect posted on X: “Gloucestershire are devastated to study of the passing of former participant and membership president, David ‘Syd’ Lawrence MBE, aged 61.
“Everybody at Gloucestershire want to ship their finest needs to David’s household throughout this terribly unhappy time.”
Gloucestershire
Following his MND prognosis, there have been emotional scenes when Gloucestershire went all the best way within the T20 Blast final yr, with captain James Bracey presenting the trophy to Lawrence at Edgbaston.
Lawrence’s household assertion added: “As president of Gloucestershire County Cricket Membership, Syd took on the position with unbelievable pleasure and keenness and liked each minute of it.
“Syd’s spouse Gaynor and son Buster thank everybody for the kindness and assist that has been proven to them and the household thus far and would ask that they’re now given a while and area to grieve in non-public.”
Solely final week, Lawrence obtained an MBE within the King’s Birthday Honours for his excellent providers to cricket, whereas he had been working to boost cash and consciousness of his situation.
He mentioned: “It’s an extremely proud second. It’s not one thing that I ever thought would sit after my title, however I’m completely delighted that it’s going to achieve this for nevertheless lengthy I’m right here and might be part of my legacy when I’m gone.”
MND Prognosis
Lawrence’s MND prognosis hastened his autobiography as he nervous he would lose the flexibility to talk. Titled ‘In Syd’s Voice’, written with the assistance of Dean Wilson, the e-book was revealed this month.
England and Wales Cricket Board chair Richard Thompson mentioned on the governing physique’s web site: “David ‘Syd’ Lawrence was a real trailblazer of English cricket and a person of immense braveness, character, and compassion.
“His affect on the sport prolonged far past the boundary ropes. As a quick bowler, he thrilled crowds together with his tempo and keenness. As a pacesetter and advocate, he broke obstacles and impressed change, changing into a strong voice for inclusion and illustration in our sport.
“Even within the face of his sickness, David confirmed extraordinary energy and dignity, persevering with to uplift others together with his resilience and spirit. He leaves behind a legacy that can endure within the hearts of all who love cricket.
“Our ideas are together with his household, mates, and the whole cricketing neighborhood presently.”
READ MORE: Annie Chave – A sad day but Dave ‘Syd’ Lawrence’s strength shines through
