David Lawrence, England’s First Black Cricketer Born in Britain, Dies at 61

The sudden demise of David 'Syd' Lawrence shook the cricket world. The icon of Gloucestershire Cricket passed away at the age of only 61. Gloucestershire Cricket Club released a statement regarding the unfortunate demise of the former cricketer and club president.

"Gloucestershire Cricket is deeply saddened to announce the passing of our Club President, David 'Syd' Lawrence MBE, at the age of 61. In his final year, Syd faced motor neurone disease with the same courage and determination that defined his cricketing life," the media release stated.

"The cricket world rallied behind him, with fundraising efforts led by the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA), a charity endorsed by both Syd and his family and supported by the wider cricketing community."

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First ever black cricketer to represent England cricket team 

After countless memorable bowling performances, in 1988, Lawrence made their way to represent Team England and become the first-ever Black cricketer to represent his country. David in Gloucester on 28 January 1964. Over the years of hard work, the well-built pacer emerged as one of the fearless fast bowlers of the world. 

Gloucestershire Cricket is devastated to learn of the passing of former player and Club President, David 'Syd' Lawrence MBE, aged 61.

Everyone at Gloucestershire Cricket would like to send their best wishes to David's family during this terribly sad time. pic.twitter.com/tDTAdIEeVx

— Gloucestershire Cricket 🏆 (@Gloscricket) June 22, 2025

Later, he combined with West Indies great Courtney Walsh for Gloucestershire Cricket. Over a 16-year career, the seamer took 477 wickets at 31.27 for the club. For England, he played five Tests between 1988 and 1992 and claimed 18 wickets, including the infamous 5-wicket haul against the West Indies. In that match, Lawrence clinched the wicket of Sir Vivian Richards. In his only ODI match of his career, the speed star bagged 4 wickets. The decorated career came to a sudden change due to a devastating knee injury in 1992.