In a heartbreaking development for the cricketing world, former Zimbabwean cricketer Heath Streak passed away in the early hours of September 3. The news of his passing was confirmed by his family members, dispelling previous false rumours that had circulated recently. Streak, who had been battling cancer, peacefully left this world at his farm in Matabeleland, surrounded by his family and loved ones.
Family members confirmed Streakâs passing away
John Rennie, a former Zimbabwe international and the spokesperson for the family, shared the sombre news with a prominent news agency, stating, “Heath Streak 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.”
Following Streak’s passing, his wife, Nadine, took to social media to express her grief and love for her late husband. In a heartfelt message, she wrote, “In the early hours of this morning, Sunday, September 3rd, 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,” Nadine Streak shared on Facebook.
A pioneer in Zimbabwe Cricket
Heath Streak was a prominent figure in Zimbabwean cricket, having represented his country in 65 Tests and 189 ODIs between 1993 and 2005. Known for his exceptional all-round abilities as a fast-medium bowler and a proficient lower-order batsman, he made a significant impact in international cricket.
Streak achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the first Zimbabwean bowler to claim 100 wickets in ODIs. Moreover, he was the pioneer cricketer from his nation to reach the coveted milestone of 100 wickets in both Test and ODI formats.
It’s worth noting that a couple of weeks before his passing, Streak’s former colleague Henry Olonga had erroneously announced his death on social media. However, both Streak and Olonga subsequently clarified that the news was untrue, with Olonga even extending an apology for his previous post.
Heath Streak’s cricketing journey faced a significant setback in 2021 when he was handed an eight-year ban by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for breaching the anti-corruption code in 2018. Despite the challenges he encountered, Streak’s contributions to the sport and his impact on Zimbabwean cricket will be remembered and cherished by fans around the world.Â
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