Henry Olonga, a former Zimbabwe cricketer, has issued a public apology for breaking the news of Heath Streak’s passing earlier in the week. Regarding the same, he also expressed his regrets to the former teammate and his family.
Henry Olonga announced a few days ago on social media that Streak, who had been battling colon and liver cancer since May 2023, had died. Notably, with the news gaining momentum quickly, Streak denied the reports of his passing and expressed his regret about the false information circulating on social media, saying he was “very upset and hurt.”
Henry Olonga later clarified, providing a screenshot of their conversation, that Streak is still alive. But by then, the story had gone viral.
Henry Henry Olonga posted a lengthy apology on his Facebook page on Saturday (August 26), apologizing profusely for the false information. The former fast bowler revealed his friendship with Streak, saying they attended the same high school together and have known each other for almost 39 years, starting in 1984. He added that he had been monitoring the health of his old teammate.
The 47-year-old expressed regret for treating the earlier incident as gospel to everyone.
I am obviously very sorry for taking it as gospel. I then posted my own tributes, which amid the numerous tributes already there seemed to get a lot of traction. A few hours later, Heath texted me to ask me to change my mind. He has a wonderful sense of humor (always). I then had to go back and try to correct the mistake, which sadly had spread everywhere. But in this day and age, how can it be quickly fixed? I did my best to retract as a result.
Naturally, following the clanger, I apologized sincerely to the Streaks. There was no need for this. In any event, I sincerely hope you comprehend the situation from time to time and appreciate your pardon for my involvement in this regrettable incident, Olonga added.
One of the best all-around players Zimbabwe has ever produced is Heath Streak. The 49-year-old, who played for his country from 1993 to 2005, has 239 50-over kills and 216 Test wickets. He has coached the national sides of Bangladesh and Zimbabwe in addition to the defunct Gujarat Lions and Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League.
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