Former Gloucestershire and England player David ‘Syd’ Lawrence diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease | News | Gloucestershire Cricket

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 ex-England player, who played five Test matches for his country, was recently diagnosed with MND after undergoing a number of tests. Syd, a proud native of Gloucester, competed in 280 games for his home county from 1981 to 1997, where he achieved 625 wickets during his time at Nevil Road.

Syd, who is loved by fans in Gloucestershire and across England, became Club President in April 2022. Despite being diagnosed with MND, he has expressed his desire to fulfill his role as President at Gloucestershire until the end.

David and his spouse, Gaynor, are very grateful for the constant help they have received from friends and family, as well as for the help they will get in the future. Although feeling devastated due to the diagnosis, David is determined to battle the illness and has shown his gratitude to the Club, the PCA, and the Hornsby Trust for their support during this challenging period.

Will Brown, the former head of Gloucestershire Cricket, expressed deep sorrow on behalf of the entire Club upon learning about David Lawrence's MND diagnosis.

David is a highly respected figure in the sport, a legendary member of our club, and a pioneer as the first Black player born in Britain to represent England. In addition to his accomplishments on the field, he is a wonderful person - caring, compassionate, and a source of motivation for all of us here at Gloucestershire.

Collaborating with him while he served as Club President has been amazing and humbling. He has introduced us to new opportunities, guided us in learning, and built strong relationships with many of us. The bond of friendship we share with him is unique and valued by each one of us.

I speak on behalf of everyone connected to the Club in sending our heartfelt support to David, Gaynor, and their loved ones.

Ian Thomas, who oversees Member Services at the PCA, expressed the organization's profound sadness upon learning of the devastating news that David Lawrence has just received.

David has been a source of motivation both on and off the cricket field, and we are confident that he will keep pushing through and demonstrate his strong resolve to combat MND.

The PCA and the Professional Cricketers’ Trust, which is the charity for players, will be there to help David and his family by providing the most effective support.

David, Gaynor, and their family have asked for privacy and respect during this difficult time as David processes his diagnosis in Gloucestershire.