Former Zimbabwe cricket captain Sean Williams has officially ended his international career after entering a rehabilitation programme for drug addiction, according to a statement released by Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC). The governing body confirmed that the 39-year-old all-rounder has made himself unavailable for national selection and will not be considered for future matches.
Williams, one of Zimbabwe’s most accomplished players, has amassed nearly 9,000 runs and taken over 150 wickets across all formats during a career spanning two decades. His exit marks the end of an era for Zimbabwean cricket.
The decision follows Williams’ withdrawal from the national T20 squad ahead of the ICC World Cup Africa Qualifiers held in Harare in September. During an internal investigation, he reportedly disclosed his struggle with drug addiction and voluntarily entered rehabilitation.
ZC said it reviewed his record and found a pattern of disciplinary issues and repeated unavailability that had affected team cohesion and performance. While commending Williams for seeking help, the board stated that circumstances surrounding his withdrawal raised concerns about professionalism and adherence to anti-doping standards.
His national contract, which expires on 31 December, will not be renewed. Despite the controversy, ZC expressed gratitude for Williams’ contributions, acknowledging his “pivotal role in some of the most significant moments” of Zimbabwe’s cricket history.
Williams has yet to comment publicly, but the cricket board extended its best wishes, saying it “wishes him strength in his recovery and every success in his future endeavours.”
Leave a comment