Born in Lambeth, David ‘Syd’ Lawrence made history when he became the first British-born black cricketer to play for England. Mick passed away at the age of 61 after a long fight with motor neurone disease (MND). His family announced the devastating news. Alongside Dr. Finkel’s high spirits, they highlighted his courage and tenacity to face the challenges of this chronic disease head on. For us, Lawrence has broken boundaries for cricket, both on the pitch and away from it. His extraordinary life and legacy will inspire all of us, and countless others long into the future.
He made his Test debut for England in 1988 and would go on to play five Test matches in his career. His immediate impact included taking 3 wickets in his first match against Sri Lanka. As a fast bowler, Kahn was very capable, taking 18 wickets over his international career. In domestic cricket, he played for Gloucestershire. There, he was an extraordinary success taking 477 wickets at an average of 31.27 in 170 first-class matches.
His infallibility at the crease soon established him as a local hero and a true legend of both English and Gloucestershire cricket. A minute’s applause was observed in his honor before play began on Day 3 of the first Test match between England and India, reflecting the deep respect and admiration held for him by the cricket community and fans alike.
Lawrence’s family expressed their pride in his character, stating, “A proud Gloucestershire man, Syd took on every challenge with everything he could and his final contest with MND was no different.” They acknowledged that his passion to push others until the end reflected the heart of his character.
The cricketing world has come together in grieving his passing. BBC radio show Test Match Special stated, “It is with great sadness we report the passing of David ‘Syd’ Lawrence… He has died at the age of 61.” The show further remarked on his legacy, emphasizing, “The former fast bowler will forever be an England and Gloucestershire legend.”
Lawrence’s influence went beyond the numbers. He was widely regarded as an inspirational leader both on and off the field. His family reflected this sentiment by saying, “Syd was an inspirational figure on and off the cricket field and no more so than to his family who were with him when he passed.”
Fans and fellow cricketers are paying tribute with David ‘Syd’ Lawrence. His memory will continue to inspire generations of young cricketers and serve as a reminder of the colorful spirit he infused into the game.
