Former Zimbabwean pace bowler Henry Olonga retracted his statement on Heath Streak’s supposed demise. In an attempt to clear the air, Olonga again took to his X social media handle to share an update. “I can confirm that rumours of the demise of Heath Streak have been greatly exaggerated. I just heard from him. The third umpire has called him back. He is very much alive folks.”
He had earlier said, “Sad news coming through that Heath Streak has crossed to the other side. RIP Zimbabwe cricket legend.”
Later on, Streak himself went on to say to Mid-Day, “It is a total rumour and a lie. I’m alive and well. I am very upset to learn that something as big as someone apparently passing can be spread unverified, especially in our day and age of social media. I believe the source should apologise. I am hurt by the news.”
Streak took over 450 international wickets, alongside accumulating 1990 runs in Test cricket and 2943 runs in ODIs. The well-built pace bowler made his first-class debut back in 1993 for Zimbabwe B against Kent. In just his second Test, against Pakistan, in 1993, he took 8 wickets in the match. A couple of years later, against the same opponent, his 6 for 90 in the first innings was the cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s memorable maiden Test win.
He returned his best Test figures of 6 for 73 against India in 2005. Eventually, he finished with 216 Test wickets. Streak also bagged 239 ODI scalps, returning his best figures of 5 for 32, versus India, in 1997. He also led the national side in 21 Tests and 67 ODIs.
Streak retired from internationals in 2005. He then penned a contract with the Indian Cricket League (ICL) in 2007. Streak took up coaching roles with Zimbabwe, Scotland, Bangladesh, Gujarat Lions and Kolkata Knight Riders. The pace bowler was handed an eight-year ban in April 2021 for breaching ICC Anti-Corruption Code.