David Lawrence, the first British-born black player to represent England, has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease.
Lawrence, now president of Gloucestershire, announced that the 60-year-old played the first of five Tests in 1988 and featured in one ODI. A 60-year-old man was diagnosed with MND.
Lawrence, affectionately known as “Syd” as he was born and raised in Gloucestershire, played 280 games for his hometown between 1981 and 1997, taking 625 wickets during his career at Neville Road .
Gloucestershire take up the role of club chairman in April 2022, confirming that Lawrence hopes to complete his full term at the county. Gloucestershire chief executive Will Brown said on the county’s website: “Everyone at the club was devastated to hear the news of David Lawrence and his diagnosis of MND. David is a football icon. , a club legend and a pioneer as the first British-born black player to play for England.
“More importantly, he is the most wonderful human being, kind, loving, considerate and an inspiration to all of us in Gloucestershire. It has been a joy to work with him since he became chairman of the club A great and humbling experience – he has opened doors we didn’t even know we had, helped us learn and became a friend to so many of us. This friendship is a very special thing and one that I know we all cherish. .
“I know I speak for everyone associated with the club in sending David all our love, [his wife] Gaynor and all their family and friends.
The England and Wales Cricket Board also extended its best wishes to Lawrence, who took 18 Test wickets and returned four for 67 in an ODI against New Zealand but ended up suffering a fractured left patella at the age of 28 his career.
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“We were saddened to learn of David’s diagnosis,” the ECB said in a statement.
“He embodies everything that is good about our game and we wholeheartedly support ‘Syd’ and his family.”
The Professional Cricketers’ Association will also continue to support Lawrence. PCA managing director of member services Ian Thomas said: “David has been an inspiration both during and after his cricketing career and we have no doubt he will continue to fight and perform against MND’s determination. “The PCA and the Professional Cricketers’ Trust, the player’s charity, will provide the best possible support to David and, importantly, his family. “
