Sports Reporter
THE late cricket icon Heath Streak is likely to live long in the memories of many Zimbabweans with President Mnangagwa yesterday describing him as a ‘great sportsman and a true patriot of his country’.
Streak was 49 when he died at his family’s farm in Inyathi, Matabeleland North, just over two weeks ago, after losing a fierce battle to cancer.
He was honoured with a state-assisted funeral by the Government of Zimbabwe in remembrance of his contribution to the game.
President Mnangagwa yesterday extended his condolences to the family after meeting Streak’s widow Nadine and children Charlotte, Harry and Kevin at State House.
The Sports and Recreation Commission said in a brief statement yesterday that the Streak family also expressed their gratitude for the honour bestowed to the cricket icon by the Government.
“This morning His Excellency, President ED Mnangagwa conveyed his condolences to Heath Streak’s widow, Nadine Streak at State House.
“…Nadine Streak thanked His Excellency and the Government for honouring Heath with a State Assisted funeral. His Excellency also extended his condolences to Heath’s parents, Denis and Sheona Streak, describing Heath as a ‘great sportsman and a true patriot of his country’.”
Streak’s body was cremated as per his wish, two weeks ago. Old Mutual Zimbabwe, who supported Streak’s academy, said:
“As Old Mutual Zimbabwe we are honoured to have worked with the late former Zimbabwe Cricket captain, Heath Streak. His passion for the sport can be vouched for by many.
“He leaves behind a legacy and we would love to keep his memory alive by continuing with what he had started and believed in.”