By Trisha Ghosal in Leeds
A minute of applause marked the start of Day 3 at Headingley on Sunday, as the Indian and English cricket teams came together to honour the life and legacy of David ‘Syd’ Lawrence. The former England fast bowler, who made history as the first British-born Black cricketer to represent his country in Test cricket, passed away at the age of 61 following a battle with motor neurone disease (MND).
Before the start of the day’s play, players from both sides stood in a line across the outfield, heads bowed and hands clapping, in a moving tribute to a trailblazer who transcended his sport. Both teams wore black armbands in his memory.
Lawrence, known for his explosive pace and larger-than-life personality, played five Tests for England between 1988 and 1992, before a horrific knee injury cut short his international career. Off the field, he remained a powerful voice for inclusion and equality, speaking openly about his experiences with racism and later, his health struggles.
In his final months, Lawrence published a memoir and was awarded an MBE for his services to cricket and diversity. His passing has left a void in the cricketing world, but the respect shown at Headingley was a testament to how deeply he impacted players and fans alike.
It was not just a tribute — it was a moment that reminded the world of the power of legacy, and the importance of representation.
The Gloucestershire County Cricket Club, where he served as president, came up with a classy tribute. “Gloucestershire Cricket is devastated to learn of the passing of former player and Club President, David ‘Syd’ Lawrence, MBE, aged 61,” it posted on its X handle. “Everyone at Gloucestershire Cricket would like to send their best wishes to David’s family during this terribly sad time.”
The ECB called Lawrence “a true trailblazer of English cricket and a man of immense courage, character and compassion”.
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