David ‘Syd’ Lawrence, a former player for Gloucestershire and England, has been diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease.

 

Gloucestershire Cricket is deeply saddened to announce that its former player and current President, David ‘Syd’ Lawrence, has been diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease.

The 60-year-old former England international, who earned five Test caps for his country, received the diagnosis earlier this month following a series of tests. Born and raised in Gloucester, Syd played 280 matches for his home county between 1981 and 1997, achieving 625 wickets during his career at Nevil Road.

Syd, a beloved figure among Gloucestershire and wider England fans, was appointed Club President in April 2022. Despite his diagnosis, he has expressed his determination to fulfill his role as President at Gloucestershire.

David and his wife, Gaynor, are grateful for the overwhelming support they have received and will continue to receive from friends and family. While devastated by the diagnosis, David is resolved to battle the disease and has extended his gratitude to the Club, the PCA, and the Hornsby Trust for their unwavering support during this challenging time.

Will Brown, outgoing Chief Executive at Gloucestershire Cricket, said: “The entire Club is devastated by the news of David Lawrence's MND diagnosis. David is not only a cricketing icon and club legend but also a trailblazer as the first British-born Black player to represent England. He is a person of immense kindness, love, and inspiration to all of us at Gloucestershire.

“Working with him since he became Club President has been both an incredible and humbling experience. He has opened doors we didn’t know existed, taught us invaluable lessons, and become a friend to many of us. That friendship is incredibly special and cherished by all of us.

“Our thoughts and love go out to David, Gaynor, and their entire family and circle of friends.”

Ian Thomas, Managing Director of Member Services at the PCA, added: “The PCA is deeply shocked by the tragic news concerning David Lawrence. Throughout his cricketing and post-cricket career, David has been an inspiration, and we have no doubt that he will continue to demonstrate his determination in his battle against MND.

“The PCA and the Professional Cricketers’ Trust, the players’ charity, will stand by David and, importantly, his family, offering our utmost support.”

At the request of David, Gaynor, and their family, Gloucestershire kindly asks for privacy during this time as David comes to terms with his diagnosis.