Devon Malcolm and David ‘Syd’ Lawrence Honoured in King’s Birthday Awards for Services to Cricket

The world of English cricket is rich with history, legendary performances, and stories of individuals who have shaped the game far beyond the boundary ropes. In June 2025, two iconic fast bowlers—Devon Malcolm OBE and David ‘Syd’ Lawrence MBE—received royal recognition in the King’s Birthday Honours cricket list. Awarded for their outstanding contributions to cricket, advocacy for diversity, and service to their communities, Malcolm and Lawrence represent the highest ideals in UK sport.

This long-form article explores both men’s careers, community efforts, and ongoing legacy. We’ll cover why their story marks a milestone for Black cricketers England, revisit Malcolm’s famous “9 for 57,” share Lawrence’s fight with Motor Neurone Disease, and spotlight the wider impact of their honours across the game.

Devon Malcolm OBE: Fast Bowler, Role Model, Diversity Advocate

Early Life and Cricketing Journey

Devon Malcolm was born in Kingston, Jamaica, and came to England in his teens. Starting his professional journey with Derbyshire in 1984, Malcolm quickly developed a reputation for bowling with breathtaking speed. Over a decade of Test cricket for England (128 wickets), Devon inspired both awe and admiration. His career included stints with Northamptonshire and Leicestershire, earning respect as one of the most feared fast bowlers of his generation.

The Spell That Echoes: “9 for 57” at The Oval

Few moments in English cricket history rival Devon’s performance against South Africa at The Oval in 1994. After being struck on the head by Fanie de Villiers, Malcolm famously told the opposition, “You guys are history,” before ripping through the South African batting order with raw pace and aggression. Taking 9 wickets for 57 runs, Malcolm turned the match and created one of the most memorable Test bowling spells ever.

This feat is etched in cricketing lore and remains a benchmark for excellence and intimidation in bowling.

Service to Cricket and Diversity

Malcolm’s legacy is not confined to the pitch. Named an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in this year’s King’s Birthday Honours, he’s recognised for services to cricket and diversity in cricket. Now serving as the ECB’s Black Communities Liaison Officer, Devon actively works to inspire Black youth, increase access to the sport, and promote inclusive coaching and leadership pathways. His advocacy has helped cricket reconnect with Black communities and address institutional barriers in the sport.

Devon’s passion for player welfare and community engagement continues, as does his involvement with cricket clubs across the UK.

David ‘Syd’ Lawrence MBE: English Pioneer, Resilience in Adversity

First British-Born Black England Cricketer

David (Syd) Lawrence blazed his own trail when he became the first British-born Black cricketer to play for England in 1988. With raw pace, athletic power, and personality, he played for Gloucestershire over 16 years, taking 625 wickets. Unfortunately, Lawrence’s England career was cut short after a devastating injury, but his impact endured.

Champion for Research and Awareness: Motor Neurone Disease

Lawrence’s resilience continued off the pitch. Diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) in 2024, Syd transformed adversity into advocacy—raising awareness and funds to fight the degenerative disease. His bravery has moved the cricket community, inspiring fundraising initiatives and earning widespread respect.

Receiving an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours, Lawrence said, “It’s not something I ever imagined would follow my name… it will accompany me for as long as I live and form part of my legacy after I’m gone.”

Impact on Diversity and Representation

Through public speaking, his memoir, and mentoring, Syd Lawrence has highlighted barriers faced by Black cricketers and called for structural change in English sport. His commitment to greater representation and opportunity continues to inspire young players and coaches throughout the country.

Recognition for Community Leaders & Diversity Advocates in Cricket

Honouring the Game’s Unsung Heroes

In addition to Malcolm and Lawrence, several cricket figures received recognition in the 2025 King’s Birthday Honours for dedicated service:

• Sanjay Patel (MBE): Developer of The Hundred, Patel is celebrated for innovation, promoting family engagement, and broadening cricket’s reach.
• Bryan Henderson (MBE): Sky Sports cricket commentator, recognised for enhancing public engagement with cricket.
• Nasa Hussain (British Empire Medal): Facilities Manager at Bradford Park Avenue, pivotal in community outreach and modernising cricket infrastructure.
• Derek Picken (British Empire Medal): Celebrated for 50 years of volunteer service to Rogerstone Welfare Cricket Club in Wales.

The ECB and Future of Diversity in Cricket

Commitment to Black Cricketers and Diverse Communities

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has renewed its commitment to making cricket more inclusive and accessible. Initiatives include coaching bursaries for Black coaches, greater visibility for ethnically diverse role models, and strategic partnerships such as the ACE Programme.

Key aspects of the ECB’s diversity strategy:

• Increasing Black leadership in coaching and club administration.
• Expanding cricket provision in primary schools, especially those serving ethnically diverse populations.
• Listening to voices like Malcolm, Lawrence, and many others who have highlighted the need for change.

Celebrating Cricket’s Living Legacy

The Meaning of the King’s Birthday Honours for the Community

For Black cricketers and their supporters, these royal awards are not just personal— they symbolise progress in recognition, understanding, and equity within UK sport. Malcolm and Lawrence’s service reminds us that representation matters—and that the journey to true inclusion continues.

From the grassroots to the highest levels of the game, these honours fuel hope for a more equitable, diverse cricketing landscape.

Conclusion: More Than Cricket – Legacy and Inspiration

The 2025 King’s Birthday Honours shine a spotlight on two England cricket legends who have impacted their sport and community far beyond the field. Devon Malcolm OBE and David ‘Syd’ Lawrence MBE embody the best of UK cricket: exceptional skill, enduring resilience, and an unwavering commitment to making the game accessible and inspiring for all.

Their stories, awards, and advocacy reinforce the importance of recognising unsung heroes, investing in diversity, and ensuring future generations of cricketers—regardless of background—can aspire to greatness.

Whether you are a lifelong fan of cricket or new to the game, let the stories of Malcolm, Lawrence, and community honourees serve as a call to celebrate, support, and drive positive change within sport and society.