Heath Streak dies at 49

Former Zimbabwe cricketer Heath Streak passed away in the early hours of September 3. In devastating news for his family and every cricket fan around the world, false rumours of his passing were also circulated recently; however, the news was confirmed by his family members this time around.

Streak played 65 Tests and 189 ODIs for Zimbabwe, scoring 1990 and 2943 runs, respectively, in the formats. However, it was his prowess with the ball that set him apart from the rest. Taking 216 wickets in Test cricket and 239 in ODIs, he remains Zimbabwe’s all-time highest wicket-taker in both formats.

After his demise, Streak’s wife, Nadine, took to social media to write a heartfelt message in memory of her husband. "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 wrote on Facebook.

Streak passed away at the family’s Enthokozweni farm in Inyathi, Matabeleland North. Streak’s father also confirmed his demise. “Heath had not been well for a while, for almost six months he was battling cancer. He died in the early hours at 1 AM,” Denis Streak was quoted as saying by Sunday News.

Regarded as one of the best players from Zimbabwe to grace the game, Streak’s legacy in international cricket is amongst the very best. Whenever he showed for the national side, he did it with a certain flair and elegance.