Former Zimbabwe all-rounder Heath Streak passes away at the age of 49

Former Zimbabwe captain Heath Streak passes away after a prolonged battle with cancer. The legendary cricketer died aged 49 on Sunday. The entire cricket world is shaken by the untimely passing of Streak and mourning his death on various social media platforms. 

One of the foremost names in the history of Zimbabwe Cricket has left the world after fighting lung cancer. Heath Streak was undergoing treatment in South Africa after being diagnosed with the cell destroyer. Following his death, the cricket world came together to deliver respect to one of the finest all-rounders that ever graced the game. 

3 things you need to know

• Heath Streak passed away at the age of 49
• Streak played 65 Tests and 189 ODIs for Zimbabwe
• He is Zimbabwe's leading wicket-taker in both formats

Heath Streak's wife Nadine Streak confirms the death

After his demise, Heath 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.

Image: Nadine Stral/ Facebook

Heath Streak's glorious career

Born in Bulawayo, Heath Streak made his Test and ODI debut at the age of 19. He was a regular in the side in his career span of over a decade. He played 189 ODIs and 65 Test matches for Zimbabwe and continues to be the leading wicket-taker of his country. He took 216 wickets in Tests and  239 in ODIs. He has a Test century to his name and a total of 8-five wicket hauls across formats. As the captain of the side, he created history by becoming the first Zim captain to lead his side to victory overseas. Zimbabwe secured 2-1 victory over New Zealand in 2001. While he left the world as a mortal his achievements in the cricket world will forever remain immortalised.