“Heath has cancer and is being treated by one of South Africa’s most respected oncologists,” his family said in a statement. “He remains in good spirits and will continue to fight this disease in the same way his opponents faced during his reverent days on the cricket field.
“The family hopes you understand and respect their wish that this remain a private family matter, and thank you for your prayers and well wishes. There will be no further official statements regarding his health at this time. Any news that becomes public should be considered a rumor.”
Streak, now 49, was a major figure in Zimbabwean cricket throughout most of the 1990s and early 2000s when they enjoyed their most successful run in international cricket. He represented Zimbabwe in 65 Tests and 189 ODIs between 1993 and 2005, finishing with 1990 runs and 216 wickets in Tests, and 2943 runs and 239 wickets in ODIs.
Streak is still the only Zimbabwean bowler with over 100 Test wickets and over 200 ODI wickets. He captained Zimbabwe in the 2000s, during a difficult period when a number of players withdrew from the national side as relations between the board and the team reached an all-time low.
After his career as a player ended, Streak took on coaching roles on several teams. He served as bowling coach of Bangladesh, Kolkata Knight Riders and Somerset in addition to multiple stints in Zimbabwean cricket.