Former Zimbabwe cricket team captain Heath Streak passed away aged 49 on Tuesday after fighting a prolonged battle with colon and liver cancer. He was undergoing treatment in South Africa.
Streak was one of the greatest all-rounders to have played for Zimbabwe. He was a prolific batsman and a devastating fast bowler. He was also a brilliant captain, leading Zimbabwe to several Test and ODI victories.
Streak made his international debut for Zimbabwe in 1993. He went on to play 65 Tests, 200 ODIs, and 19 T20Is for his country. He scored 4,024 runs in Tests and 2,830 runs in ODIs. He also took 209 wickets in Tests and 261 wickets in ODIs.
Streak was a key member of the Zimbabwe team that reached the semi-finals of the 1999 Cricket World Cup. He was also the captain of the Zimbabwe team that won the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup Qualifier in 2009.
Streak retired from international cricket in 2005. He later served as the bowling coach of the Zimbabwe national cricket team.
Streak's death is a huge loss to Zimbabwean cricket. He was a true legend of the game. His legacy will live on for many years to come.
Tributes Pour in for Heath Streak
Tributes have been pouring in for Heath Streak following his death on Tuesday.
Former Zimbabwe fast bowler Henry Olonga tweeted, "The greatest all rounder we produced. It was a pleasure playing with you."
Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin wrote, "Sad! Really sad."
Zimbabwe Cricket tweeted, "We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Heath Streak. Heath was a true legend of our game and will be remembered for his immense talent and passion for cricket. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time."
Streak will be remembered as one of the greatest cricketers to have played for Zimbabwe. He was a true all-rounder who excelled with both bat and ball. His death is a huge loss to the cricketing world.
