Overview

• Lawrence was the first British-born black cricketer to represent England, taking 18 wickets in five Tests between 1988 and 1992 before a knee injury ended his international career.
• Diagnosed with motor neurone disease in June 2024, he used his platform to raise awareness and was appointed MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours in June 2025.
• His autobiography, In Syd’s Voice, was published earlier this month, offering a candid look at living with MND and his concerns about losing the ability to speak.
• On Day 3 of the first Test between England and India at Headingley, players observed a minute’s applause and wore black armbands in his honour.
• After retiring he became a competitive bodybuilder and Bristol nightclub owner, and in 2022 was elected the first black president of Gloucestershire County Cricket Club.