Zimbabwe’s sports regulatory body, the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) have paid a glowing tribute to the legendary former national cricket team captain Heath Streak, who passed away on Sunday.
Tributes have been pouring in from around the world in honour of Streak, who died at the age of 49 after battling liver and colon cancer.
The legendary all-rounder played in 65 Tests for Zimbabwe, taking 216 wickets, and 189 one-day internationals, in which he took 239 wickets.
After his retirement as a player, Streak turned to coaching and later became the national team bowling coach and then the head coach until he left in 2018.
He also had coaching stints with Bangladesh, Scotland, Somerset and several franchise T20 teams around the world.
Streak is survived by his wife, Nadine, and four children.
In a statement on behalf of the country’s sports regulatory body, SRC board chairman Gerald Mlotshwa said:
“On behalf of the Board, management and staff of the Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC), I wish to extend our sincere condolences to Nadine Streak, the children Holly, Charlotte, Harry and Kevin on the passing of their father, legendary Zimbabwe cricketer, captain and coach, Heath Hilton Streak.
“The country has lost a legend of the game, a true gentleman, a loving husband and father. Dennis and Sheona – you raised an icon. Leigh-Ann, your brother’s legacy is sealed.”
He added: “He will be missed by all in the game of cricket and beyond.
“The tributes pouring in from the length and breath of Zimbabwe, and all around the world, from ordinary folk to other luminaries of the game are testament to the influence he had on all our lives.
“Our prayers are with the entire Streak family, relatives and friends. Take comfort from the love and comfort and accolades pouring in for Heath.
Legends live forever,” concluded the SRC boss in his condolence message.
Meanwhile tributes continue to pour in for Streak since his passing on with some of the world’s most renowned current and ex-players paying their respects to one of Zimbabwe’s finest sportspersons.
The England cricket team showed great empathy and respect to the late Streak by wearing black armbands in his honour during their T20I series against New Zealand which ended on Tuesday.
OBITUARY – Heath Streak a true legend of the game
Details 🔽https://t.co/CL7HacRRkQ pic.twitter.com/3jOLfiOc3l
— Zimbabwe Cricket (@ZimCricketv) September 4, 2023