Tributes as legend of cricket 'Syd' dies aged 61

DAVID “Syd” Lawrence, the first British-born black cricketer to play for England, has died at the age of 61.

- DAVID CHARLESWORTH

It was revealed almost exactly a year ago that Lawrence, who took 18 wickets in five Tests for England between 1988 and 1992, was the latest sportsperson to be diagnosed with motor neurone disease.

The announcement was in the same month ex-England and Leeds rugby league great Rob Burrow died after a long battle with the incurable illness, which progressively damages parts of the nervous system.

A statement from Lawrence's family given to the PA news agency said: "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dave Lawrence MBE following his brave battle with motor neurone disease.

"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. A proud Gloucestershire man, Syd took on every challenge with everything he could and his final contest with MND was no different. His willingness to encourage and think of others right up to the end was typical of the man he was."

As well as his six outings for England - having played a lone ODI against the West Indies at Lord's in 1991, collecting four for 67 - Lawrence bagged 625 wickets in 280 matches for Gloucestershire.