In what came as heartbreaking news for Zimbabwe Cricket and the fraternity worldwide, former Zimbabwe captain and one of the greatest cricketers produced by the nation, Heath Streak was diagnosed with Stage 4 colon and liver cancer. The 49-year-old former all-rounder is currently undergoing treatment in Johannesburg, South Africa. Streak's former teammate and longtime friend, Sean Williams provided more updates on the former Zimbabwe skipper's health.
"Heath has colon and liver cancer (Stage 4). All I know at this stage is Heath's immediate family was called to go to him in South Africa and I am not sure on any details thereof. I did message Heath and he did respond but I'm sure at this stage the family will want privacy. It sounds like the cancer is spreading pretty quick cause last week he was fishing," Williams told Cricbuzz on Saturday.
"Heath is my mentor and did a lot of good things for a lot of people and basically saved my life and career. We just pray he will be ok," he added.
Streak played cricket at the highest level for 12 years and made path-breaking contributions towards the progress of Zimbabwe cricket. He played 65 Test matches and 189 ODIs for the national team. With the bat, Streak scored 1,990 runs in Tests and 2,943 in ODIs.
With the ball in hand, Streak finished his career with more than 450 international wickets. The right-arm medium pacer finished with 216 Test wickets and 239 wickets in ODIs.
Streak's family has sought some privacy during these hard times. "Heath has cancer and is undergoing treatment under one of the most respected Oncologists in South Africa. He remains in good spirits and will continue to fight this disease in a similar vein to that which his opponents faced during his revered days on the cricket field.
"The family hopes that you understand and respect their wish for this to remain a private family matter, and thank you for your prayers and good wishes.
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