David “Syd” Lawrence, who has died aged 61, played five matches as a fast bowler for England until his career was cut short by a horrific knee collapse as he was running in against New Zealand in Wellington in 1992.

Former England and Gloucestershire fast bowler David 'Syd' Lawrence dies at the age of 61 following a Motor Neurone Disease diagnosis last year.

GLOUCESTER, England (AP) — David ‘Syd’ Lawrence, the first British-born Black cricketer to play for England, has died. He was 61. Lawrence’s family made the announcement on Sunday with a statement through Gloucestershire, where Lawrence was the club president. He announced a year ago he had motor neurone disease.