On the third day of the England vs India Test match at Headingley, players wore black armbands to honour former England fast bowler David ‘Syd’ Lawrence, who passed away at the age of 61. Lawrence had been battling motor neurone disease (MND), a serious illness that affects the nerves and muscles.
David Lawrence was a trailblazer in English cricket. Known for his fast bowling and powerful build, Lawrence played five Test matches between 1988 and 1992. His international career was sadly cut short by a terrible knee injury during a match in New Zealand.
After retiring from cricket, Lawrence stayed active in many ways. He became the president of Gloucestershire County Cricket Club, the first Black person to hold that position.
In 2024, he was diagnosed with MND. Even while battling the disease, he stayed strong and positive. He began writing his autobiography, titled In Syd’s Voice, knowing that his ability to speak would slowly fade. He was awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in 2025 for his contributions to cricket and the community.
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His passing deeply moved the cricket world. A minute’s applause was held at Headingley in his honour. Both Indian and English players wore black armbands to remember him. David ‘Syd’ Lawrence was not just a cricketer. He was a fighter, a leader, and a voice for change. His legacy will live on in cricket and beyond.
