Former English and Gloucestershire fast bowler David Lawrence, 60, has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND), a rare condition that progressively weakens the brain and nerves. Although there’s no cure for MND, treatments can help alleviate its impact on daily life.
Lawrence, a powerfully built fast bowler, played five Test matches for England and made 298 appearances for Gloucestershire, taking 625 wickets for the club. In 2022, he became Gloucestershire’s first Black president. A severe knee injury in 1992 during a Test match against New Zealand tragically cut short his career, ending both his Test and first-class playing days. Despite this, he remained physically active, later pursuing competitive bodybuilding.
In 2021, Lawrence openly discussed his experiences with racism at Gloucestershire, leading the club to issue an unreserved apology. Since then, he has actively delivered the African-Caribbean Engagement Programme in Bristol.
Gloucestershire announced his diagnosis on Friday, placing him among a recent cohort of athletes affected by MND, following the passing of former rugby league player Rob Burrow earlier this month.
Gloucestershire’s departing chief executive, David Brown, and Ian Thomas, managing director of member services at the Professional Cricketers’ Association (PCA), praised Lawrence’s legacy and human qualities. They expressed deep shock within their organizations and offered heartfelt support.
“David is an icon of the game, a club legend, and a trailblazer as the first British-born Black player to play for England. More than that, he’s the best of people—kind, loving, considerate, and an inspiration to all of us here at Gloucestershire,” said Brown.
“The PCA is in deep shock at the tragic news David Lawrence has recently received. David has been an inspiration throughout his cricket and post-cricket career, and we have no doubt he’ll continue to show his determination to fight MND,” said Thomas.
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