Veteran all-rounder Sean Williams has informed Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) about his struggles with drug addiction. As a result, the 39-year-old will now not be considered for selection to the national team. Williams’ central contract will also not get renewed after it expires this year.
In a statement, ZC referred to “a history of disciplinary issues and repeated unavailability, which has impacted team preparations and performance”.
Williams has featured in 24 Tests, 164 ODIs, and 85 T20Is for the Chevrons. He has amassed 1946, 5217, and 1805 runs across the three formats, respectively. With the ball, the Bulawayo-born has picked up 26, 86, and 49 wickets in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is, respectively.
Williams made his international debut in Johannesburg in February 2005 against South Africa under Tatenda Taibu’s leadership. He recently completed two decades in international cricket, surpassing James Anderson to become the longest-serving active international cricketer.
Williams had most recently withdrawn from the Zimbabwe squad ahead of the Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifiers, citing “personal reasons”. On Tuesday, ZC revealed that they had conducted an internal investigation to get more clarity about Williams’ unavailability, after which the experienced cricketer had disclosed to the board that he has been struggling with drug addiction and had voluntarily entered rehab.
“ZC expects all contracted players to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline and compliance with team protocols and anti-doping regulations,” the board said in its statement.
“While ZC commends him for seeking rehabilitation, withdrawal from team commitments under circumstances involving potential testing raises serious concerns regarding professional and ethical standards,” it added.
Williams’ last international appearance was the three-match T20I series against Namibia. In the third and final T20I, he smashed a 45-ball 77 on his home ground.
“ZC sincerely acknowledges and appreciates his immense contribution to Zimbabwean cricket over the past two decades,” the board said.
“Williams has played a pivotal role in some of the most significant moments in our recent history, leaving a lasting legacy both on and off the field. ZC wishes him strength in his recovery, and every success in his future endeavours,” it added.
--Agencies
