London, 16 June 2025 — Former England fast bowlers Devon Malcolm and David ‘Syd’ Lawrence lead a distinguished list of cricket figures recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours 2025, highlighting contributions to the game on and off the field.
Malcolm, currently serving as the ECB’s Black Communities Liaison Officer, has been awarded an OBE for Services to Cricket and Diversity. Lawrence, the first British-born Black cricketer to play for England, was recognised with an MBE, in part for his advocacy work following his motor neurone disease diagnosis.
Also honoured were Steve Davies (MBE), the first international cricketer to come out as gay; Sanjay Patel (MBE), founding Managing Director of The Hundred and current interim CEO of Yorkshire CCC; and Bryan Henderson (MBE), the man behind Sky Sports’ acclaimed cricket broadcasts.
Grassroots heroes also celebrated
The honours also extended to recreational cricket stalwarts. Nasa Hussain, Facilities Manager at Bradford Park Avenue, and Derek Picken, Chair of Rogerstone Welfare CC, received British Empire Medals (BEM) for decades of service and innovation at the grassroots level.
ECB and recipients reflect on recognition
ECB Chair Richard Thompson praised the recipients, saying: “These honours are a well-deserved celebration of their passion, dedication, and the difference they’ve made to cricket and beyond.”
Malcolm reflected, “To be honoured for my contribution to cricket and diversity in cricket is so special. You’re in this game for the love of it, and when your contribution is recognised like this it’s off the scale.”
Lawrence added, “It means a great deal to me and my family. With awareness and funds for research we can make a positive difference for those who will need it in the future.”
Cricket’s inclusive future
Patel, Davies, and Henderson echoed sentiments of humility and gratitude, while grassroots heroes Hussain and Picken reminded fans that the game’s heart beats strongest in local communities.
The 2025 King’s Birthday Honours reaffirm cricket’s power to unite across history, diversity, innovation, and community engagement — on the field, in the broadcast booth, and behind the scenes.
