Latest news with #GloucestershireCricket
BBC News
10 hours ago
- Sport
- BBC News
Gloucs batter Dent to retire after 16 years with club
Gloucestershire batter Chris Dent has retired from cricket with immediate effect after 16 years with the 34-year-old scored more than 15,000 runs across 356 matches in all formats for the county since his debut in 2009 and will end his career a one-club has played two first-class matches this season, against Glamorgan and Derbyshire."The time is right to step away from the game. It's hard to put into words what cricket has given me, but I will always be truly grateful," Dent said in a statement., external Bristol-born Dent joined the club's academy aged 12 and was part of the side that won the One-Day Cup in struck a high of 268 off 347 balls against Glamorgan in 2015 - an innings that remains the second-highest post-war total for the club - and surpassed 1,000 runs in a season four times, most recently in captained Gloucestershire for five seasons from 2018 to 2021 and was under contract until the end of summer Dent spoke about how he was enduring an ongoing battle with anxiety, which kept him out of action for much of the head coach Mark Alleyne said he was one of the "most valued players" to come through the club's pathway."Batting at the top for most of his career in England is an unenviable task, but once again he managed to impact games from that position on a regular basis," Alleyne said."Although still in great physical shape, it has been more challenging mentally, and on that sad note, his appearances have been somewhat restricted."The last few years will not define what has been a stellar career with the Glorious, and I would like to thank him for his immense contributions over the years."I feel he may still stay in cricket, perhaps playing locally, and this will be a continued boost for our regional game."
BBC News
6 days ago
- Sport
- BBC News
Gloucestershire in Pictures: Caving, air shows and the Cotswolds
Gloucestershire is beautiful on the surface but now we know its charms also stretch have been able to explore a stunning new system of caverns and tunnels under English Bicknor in the Forest of Royal International Air Tattoo came to a close last weekend, and the Cheltenham Cricket Festival has been are some sights from across the county this week. Deeper and down: The network of caverns and tunnels found under Gloucestershire has been described as one of the largest systems found in the UK in a decade. Come fly with us: The Royal International Air Tattoo came to an end last weekend, with the Red Arrows, among others, entertaining tens of thousands of visitors to Fairford. Beautiful: One of our weather watchers, 'Scrambled Legs', caught this view in Lower Slaughter this week, with the sun reflecting off the Cotswold stone. Magnificent: There can be fewer better spots to catch the cricket than at the College Ground in Cheltenham, where Gloucestershire have been playing Lancashire this week. Stunning: This eye-catching view was captured from a high up spot in Churchdown. Bright blooms: Despite a grey morning in Lechlade, the colourful flowers in this part of the county shone through.
BBC News
17-07-2025
- Sport
- BBC News
Gloucestershire spinner Smith announces retirement
Gloucestershire spinner Tom Smith has confirmed he will retire from cricket at the end of the club's T20 Blast match against Sussex at Cheltenham will be the final home game of his near 13-year career with the the defending champions unlikely to reach the quarter-finals, Smith is set to play his final match at Somerset on Friday. The 37-year-old made his debut for Gloucestershire in 2013 and won the One-Day Cup in 2015 and Blast title last signed a one-year T20 contract in November and has played five times in 2025 alongside working in the Gloucestershire coaching team. "It feels like the right time," Smith said in an open letter on the club's website., external"Over the past few seasons, I've been fortunate to begin building a coaching career alongside playing, and I'm now ready to give that my full focus."To Gloucestershire, thank you for believing in me. These past 13 seasons have been incredibly special for both me and my family. "From playing a part in the club's promotion to Division One to winning two white-ball trophies, they've been the best days I've had on a cricket field."Smith is Gloucestershire's second all-time leading T20 wicket-taker with 154 and he has taken 301 wickets across all made his debut, on loan from Middlesex, 12 years ago before making the move permanent the following season. 'One of the most consistent spinners in the country' He took 11 wickets during their 2015 One-Day Cup winning campaign, including two in the final win against Surrey at Lord's."While Tom played more than 50 first-class matches, it's in white-ball cricket where he truly excelled. With 186 appearances, he has been one of the most consistent spinners in the country," head coach Mark Alleyne said."As he begins a new chapter in coaching, we're confident he'll approach it with the same energy and skill that defined his playing career. "He's already made great strides in this area, and while the transition is expected to be seamless, we will never forget the outstanding contribution he has made to Gloucestershire cricket."
Canada News.Net
23-06-2025
- Sport
- Canada News.Net
Former England cricketer David Lawrence dies at 61
Gloucestershire [UK], June 22 (ANI): Gloucestershire Cricket announced the unfortunate demise of former cricketer and club president David 'Syd' Lawrence at the age of 61. A statement from the club said, 'Gloucestershire Cricket is deeply saddened to announce the passing of our Club President, David 'Syd' Lawrence MBE, at the age of 61. In his final year, Syd faced Motor Neurone Disease with the same courage and determination that defined his cricketing life. The cricket world rallied behind him, with fundraising efforts led by the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA), a charity endorsed by both Syd and his family, and supported by the wider cricketing community.' Fundraising efforts culminated in Pink 4 Syd, a special evening where the Club honoured Syd with a pink kit and raised vital funds for MNDA during Gloucestershire Men v Hampshire Hawks in the T20 Blast on June 20. Born in Gloucester on 28 January 1964, David Valentine Lawrence made his debut for Gloucestershire at just 17. Over a 16-year career, he became a Club icon - known for his thunderous run-up, fearless fast bowling, and ever-present energy. He formed a formidable new-ball partnership with West Indies great Courtney Walsh and delivered countless memorable performances. He played 170 first-class matches for Gloucestershire, taking 477 wickets at 31.27, including a best of 7 for 47 against Warwickshire. In one-day cricket, he claimed 148 wickets in 110 appearances, with a standout 6 for 20 against a Combined Universities XI in 1991 - the third best return in Gloucestershire's 50-over history. In 1990, Lawrence took a memorable hat-trick against Nottinghamshire in a fiery spell that saw him finish with 5 for 51. His county success earned him England honours. In 1988, he became the first British-born black man to play Test cricket for England, making his debut at Lord's against Sri Lanka. He played five Tests between 1988 and 1992, taking 18 wickets, including a famous five-wicket haul against the West Indies at The Oval in 1991 - in the same innings, he dismissed the great Viv Richards. He also made one ODI appearance, recording remarkable figures of 4 for 67, which remain the best bowling figures by a player who only played a single One Day International. A devastating knee injury in 1992 ended his international career prematurely, but Syd's life off the field was just as remarkable. He went on to become a nightclub owner, a competitive bodybuilder, and a leading advocate for inclusion and diversity in cricket. But his connection to Gloucestershire never faded. In 2022, he was appointed as the first British-born black President in the history of a professional county - a title he held at Gloucestershire Cricket until the day of his passing. The presidency was a significant and emotional return for a man who had given so much to the county, and who continued to champion its future. In 2025, he was awarded both an MBE for services to cricket, and an honorary England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) Life Vice Presidency - recognition of not just his playing career, but his work in the community and courage during his illness. Following his MND diagnosis in 2024, Syd remained open and defiant. In collaboration with cricket writer Dean Wilson, Syd published his autobiography, 'In Syd's Voice', using assistive technology to dictate his story. The book was widely praised for its honesty, humour, and strength, and it became a vital part of his legacy - capturing the personality and drive that had always set him apart. Syd became a powerful rallying figure across cricket, with events, charity matches, and donations pouring in from around the world. The Pink 4 Syd match at Bristol was both a celebration and a farewell - a night when cricket honoured one of its true characters. David's family has released the following statement: 'It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dave Lawrence MBE following his brave battle with Motor Neurone Disease. 'Syd' was an inspirational figure on and off the cricket field, and no more so than to his family, who were with him when he passed.' A proud Gloucestershire man, Syd took on every challenge with everything he could and his final contest with MND was no different. His willingness to encourage and think of others right up to the end was typical of the man he was.' As President of Gloucestershire County Cricket Club, Syd took on the role with incredible pride and passion and loved every minute of it. Syd's wife, Gaynor and son Buster thank everyone for the kindness and support that has been shown to them and the family so far and would ask that they are now given some time and space to grieve in private.' Peter Matthews, Club Chair, said, 'Firstly, everyone at the club sends their heartfelt condolences to Syd's family, who supported him so well during his illness. As a club, we will support them in any way we can. Syd was truly a Gloucestershire great, both on and off the field. As a player , he was one of our greatest ever fast bowlers, who deservedly earned Test Caps whilst with us. On retirement, he continued to be heavily involved with the club, and was both a supportive and active President. He will be hugely missed.' Neil Priscott, Chief Executive Officer of the Club said: 'Everyone connected with Gloucestershire County Cricket Club will be devastated by the news of Syd's passing, and we send all our love to his incredible family and friends.' 'All staff at Gloucestershire Cricket were, of course, aware of his fine record as a one-county man, but we all got to truly know and love him as our current President. He was passionate about the power of cricket and how our sport can touch people's lives. Syd pushed us to reach out to communities far and wide, and we shall continue to do that in his honour.' (ANI)
Perth Now
23-06-2025
- Health
- Perth Now
Sporting pioneer dies weeks after King's birthday honour
One of the world's sporting pioneers, David 'Syd' Lawrence, has passed away aged 61 after a short battle with motor neurone disease, with tributes flowing for the decorated athlete and administrator. The English cricket team stood and led a minute's silence for the fast-bowling great, before the third day's play in their Test match against India at Headingly on Sunday, after news of Mr Lawrence's death. A sad farewell after he was awarded an MBE in the latest King's birthday honours list, with the humble sportsman saying, 'it is not something I ever thought would sit after my name.' 'I am absolutely delighted that it will do so for however long I am here and will be a part of my legacy when I am gone,' he added. Mr Lawrence was chosen from the ranks of his club side, Gloucestershire, and became the first black cricketer to play for the 'Three Lions', paving the way for a multitude of talented players to represent England on the world stage. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) released a statement recognising the significant impact Mr Lawrence had on the cricketing world, not just through his ability on the field but also his humility outside the boundary. 'His impact on the game extended far beyond the boundary ropes. As a fast bowler, he thrilled crowds with his pace and passion. As a leader and advocate, he broke barriers and inspired change, becoming a powerful voice for inclusion and representation in our sport,' the statement said. 'Even in the face of his illness, David showed extraordinary strength and dignity, continuing to uplift others with his resilience and spirit. He leaves behind a legacy that will endure in the hearts of all who love cricket.' England observe a minutes applause in memory of former England cricketer David 'Syd' Lawrence. Credit: Getty. The fearsome pace bowler was a stalwart at Gloucestershire, securing 625 wickets in 280 matches, and at one point spearheaded their attack with famed pacemen Courtney Walsh and Kevin Curran. He represented England in five Test matches but was cut down in his prime by a significant knee injury in 1992, before returning to the Gloucester club in 2022 as the first black president. 'Gloucestershire Cricket is devastated to learn of the passing of former player and Club President, David 'Syd' Lawrence MBE, aged 61,' the Gloucestershire club said in a statement. 'Everyone at Gloucestershire Cricket would like to send their best wishes to David's family during this terribly sad time.' A sombre mood enshrined the Headingly ground before the day three action commenced, with famed commentator and former England bowler Phil Tufnell summing up the feeling after Mr Lawrence's passing. 'He was a sight to behold coming in with the ball in his hand,' said Tufnell. 'He had power and determination and left nothing out there on the field. 'He was a great friend of mine. An intimidating sight but with a warm heart and a great sense of humour. He would fill the room with smiles and laughter and stories,' Tufnell added.
