Former Zimbabwe captain and coach Heath Streak dies after colon cancer battle – ‘He will be dearly missed’

The former Zimbabwe captain and coach Heath Streak has died at the age of 49 after suffering from colon cancer.

His wife, Nadine confirmed the news on social media.

Streak enjoyed an illustrious playing career and is Zimbabwe’s all-time leading wicket taker..

She said: “He was carried to be with the angels.

“In the early hours of this morning, Sunday 3 September, 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.”

Zimbabwe Cricket also paid tribute to Streak in a statement and added: “Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family, friends, and fans of former captain Heath Streak. His contributions to cricket will always be remembered, and he will be dearly missed. Rest in peace.”

In total, Streak featured in 65 Tests and 189 one-day internationals, taking 216 and 239 wickets respectively in both formats. He also had spells in English county cricket with both Warwickshire and Hampshire.

It was in his role as Zimbabwe head coach where Streak became embroiled in a corruption controversy.

He disclosed information which is thought to have been used to bet on matches in the 2018 tri-series which involved Zimbabwe, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, along with games in the Indian Premier League and Afghanistan Premier League that same year.

Streak was in charge of Zimbabwe for three years following his appointment in 2016, but left after they missed out on qualification for the 2019 World Cup.