Heath Streak: 1974-2023

Hampshire Cricket are saddened to learn of the death of former all-rounder Heath Streak, who passed away on the morning of September 3^rd following a battle with colon cancer.

Heath Hilton Streak was born in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe on 16^th March 1974, and went on to become arguably his country’s greatest-ever all-rounder, and certainly one of Zimbabwe’s best-ever cricketers.

Streak joined Hampshire for the 1995 season, playing 40 matches and taking 86 wickets across the First-Class and List A formats, at a combined average of 29.15.

His best performance for the Rose and Crown came in a County Championship match against Leicestershire at May’s Bounty, where Streak took match figures of 8-84 on the way to a nine-wicket Hampshire victory.

Streak ended his career as arguably Zimbabwe’s greatest ever fast bowler, with 455 international wickets to his name, along with a Test century against the West Indies.

Hampshire’s Director of Cricket, Giles White – who played alongside Streak – said: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Heath Streak.

“He was an extremely popular member of the squad during his summer with us and left a lasting impression. Our thoughts are with Heath’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time."

Hampshire Cricket Chairman, Rod Bransgrove, said: “Heath Streak joined Hampshire County Cricket Club in 1995 as a promising 21-year-old seamer and made an immediate impact both on and off the pitch.

“He won many accolades and made many friends during his time at our Club. He occasionally even baby-sat our young daughter, Lucy, who shared our affection for Heath.

“He will be profoundly missed, not only by cricket lovers all over the World, but especially by those who knew him well. Hampshire cricket mourns his loss and our thoughts are with his family and friends at this tragic time.”