Sean Williams’ Zimbabwe Career Ends as He Enters Drug Rehabilitation

• Sean Williams has stepped away from international cricket to focus on his recovery from drug addiction
• Zimbabwe Cricket has decided he will not be selected for the national team again, citing concerns over professionalism and discipline
• Over his career, Williams has made a lasting impact on Zimbabwe cricket, achieving almost 9,000 runs and more than 150 wickets

Former Zimbabwe cricket captain Sean Williams has brought his international career to a close after entering a rehabilitation programme for drug addiction, the Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) board has confirmed.

The 39-year-old all-rounder, who has been a mainstay in Zimbabwe’s side for more than two decades, will no longer be considered for national selection.

Williams, who has amassed nearly 9,000 runs and taken over 150 wickets across all formats, withdrew from the T20 squad ahead of the World Cup Africa Qualifier in Harare in September. During an internal investigation into his sudden absence, Williams disclosed his ongoing struggles with substance abuse and voluntarily sought treatment.

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Disciplinary Concerns and Professional Standards

In a statement, Zimbabwe Cricket highlighted a history of disciplinary issues and repeated unavailability, which has affected team preparations and overall performance. The board emphasised that all contracted players are expected to uphold the highest professional and ethical standards, including adherence to team protocols and anti-doping regulations.

“While we commend Sean for taking the important step of seeking rehabilitation, his withdrawal under circumstances that could involve testing raises serious concerns about professional conduct,” ZC stated. The board further noted that it would not be feasible to renew his national contract when it expires on 31 December.

A Lasting Legacy in Zimbabwean Cricket

Despite the challenges, Zimbabwe Cricket acknowledged Williams’ monumental contribution to the sport in the country.

“He has played a pivotal role in some of the most significant moments in our recent cricketing history, leaving a lasting legacy on and off the field,” the board said.

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ZC extended its support to Williams in his recovery journey, wishing him strength and success in his future endeavours. His retirement marks the end of an era for Zimbabwe cricket, with fans and teammates alike remembering his impact on the game over two decades.

South African cricketer Kagiso Rabada tested positive for a banned substance during the SA20 tournament in January 2025. The substance detected was Benzoylecgonine, a key metabolite of an unbanned substance, sparking renewed scrutiny over the star cricketer’s conduct and the quiet nature of his subsequent suspension.

Rabada, aged 29, was handed a one-month suspension from April 1 to May 1 after the positive drug test was confirmed in late March. This suspension forced him to miss a significant portion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) season. His absence was initially attributed to “personal reasons,” with no public disclosure of the doping violation until recently.

Former cricketer becomes father

Briefly News previously reported that South African fast bowling legend Dale Steyn is preparing to welcome his first child with his long-time partner, professional surfer Tanika Hoffman.

The couple confirmed the exciting news on social media, with Hoffman revealing that she is due to give birth “any day now.” The 41-year-old retired cricketer, widely regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers in history with 439 Test wickets, is embracing a new chapter, fatherhood.

Source: Briefly News