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Sports Reporter
THE late cricket legend has been honoured by the Government of Zimbabwe after he was awarded a state assisted funeral in remembrance of his contribution to the game.
The Sports and Recreation Commission yesterday announced the decision by Government.
Streak died aged 49 years, at his family’s farm in Inyathi, Matabeleland North, last Sunday after losing a fierce battle to cancer.
He was cremated on Wednesday as per his wish.
“The Sports & Recreation Commission advises that the Government of the Republic of Zimbabwe has awarded the late Heath Hilton Streak a State Assisted Funeral.
“This is in recognition of his undoubted contribution to the sport of cricket in Zimbabwe. The Late Heath Hilton Streak’s achievements in the game established him as one of Zimbabwe’s finest cricketers, and arguably the country’s greatest All-rounder in the game.
“His achievements as a player, captain and coach brought pride to the country he loved and served passionately both on and off the field.
“The achievements have also been recognised across the cricket world by luminaries of the game as well as in those countries, counties, and clubs he played and coached during his long and distinguished career.
“He will always be remembered as a legend of the game locally and internationally. The SRC Chairman, board, management, and staff extend their profound condolences to Nadine, their children Holly, Charlotte, Harry, and Kevin; as well as to his parents Denis and Shoena Streak, his sister Leigh-Anne, relatives and friends on the untimely passing of Heath. May his dear soul rest in peace,” said the SRC.
Family spokesperson and long-time friend John Rennie said there will be a memorial service this afternoon at Mystique Gardens in Bulawayo’s Fourwinds suburb.
Streak has been hailed as a legend of Zimbabwean cricket. Statistics show he is undoubtedly the best all-rounder to emerge from the country.
Condolence messages have continued to pour in, with Indian great Sunil Gavaskar the latest to pay his respects.
“He was a top player, no question about it, one of Zimbabwe’s best ever players,” said Gavaskar in a short video on Sports Today.
“He always came across as a soft-spoken giant and very sad news that he passed away so soon.
“We all knew that he had been ailing for a while and that it was to be an uphill task, which sadly he has lost. May his soul rest in peace,” said Gavaskar.
Online Reporter