Former Zimbabwe Cricketer Heath Streak Passes Away At 49

Former Zimbabwe cricketer Heath Streak passed away in the early hours of Sunday at his farm in Matabeleland. He was aged 49.

John Rennie, a former Zimbabwean international and the family's spokesperson, confirmed the death news to Sportstar. He said, "He peacefully departed in the early hours of the morning on his Matabeleland farm, in the company of his dear family and loved ones. His passing came as the culmination of a long and courageous battle against cancer," Rennie added.

Former Zimbabwe bowler confirmed the news of the cricketer's death.

John Rennie, a former Zimbabwe international and the spokesperson for the family, confirmed the development to Sportstar. "He passed away in the early hours of the morning at his farm at Matabeleland. He was surrounded by his family and loved ones. He died peacefully after a long fight with cancer..." Rennie said.

"In the early hours of this morning, Sunday the 3rd of September 2023, the greatest love of my life and the father of my beautiful children, was carried to be with the Angels from his home where he wished to spend his last days surrounded by his family and closest loved ones. He was covered in love and peace and did not walk off the Park alone. Our souls are joined for eternity Streaky. Till I hold you again," his wife Nadine Streak said on Facebook.

Just 10 days ago, there were fake reports of his death. Olonga had mistakenly posted news of Streak's passing, saying, "Distressing news emerging that Heath Streak has moved on to the next realm. Rest in peace, @ZimCricketv legend. The finest all-rounder our nation produced. It was an honor sharing the field with you. See you on the other side when my bowling stint concludes," on his X handle.

However, he quickly clarified that Streak was indeed alive. Olonga took to the platform now known as X (formerly Twitter) and shared a screenshot of his WhatsApp conversation with Streak.

"I can unequivocally state that reports about Heath Streak's demise have been greatly exaggerated. I just spoke with him. The third umpire has rescinded the decision. He is very much alive, folks," Olonga posted on his X profile.

Streak, who was diagnosed with liver cancer, also communicated with Mid Day correspondent on Wednesday morning from Zimbabwe, asserting, "The news of my demise is entirely unfounded and false. I am alive and in good health. I am deeply disturbed to discover that such a significant event as someone's alleged passing can circulate without verification, particularly in this era of pervasive social media." This statement was provided to the Mid Day news website.

During his cricketing career, Streak featured in 65 Tests and 189 ODIs for Zimbabwe from 1993 to 2005, amassing over 450 international wickets. Recognized as the first Zimbabwean bowler to achieve 100 wickets in ODIs, Streak was renowned for his remarkable all-round abilities as a fast-medium bowler and a capable lower-order batsman. He also held the distinction of becoming the first cricketer from his nation to secure 100 wickets in both Test and ODI formats.

During his cricketing career, Streak featured in 65 Tests and 189 ODIs for Zimbabwe from 1993 to 2005, amassing over 450 international wickets. Recognized as the first Zimbabwean bowler to achieve 100 wickets in ODIs, Streak was renowned for his remarkable all-round abilities as a fast-medium bowler and a capable lower-order batsman. He also held the distinction of becoming the first cricketer from his nation to secure 100 wickets in both Test and ODI formats.

After retiring from active play, Streak transitioned to coaching and was associated with various teams and franchises. He served as a bowling coach for Bangladesh's national cricket team and later ascended to the role of head coach for the same team. Unfortunately, his coaching journey took a regrettable turn when he was banned by the International Cricket Council (ICC) in 2021 for a span of eight years due to his involvement in corrupt practices.