Heath Streak, Zimbabwe's most celebrated allrounder and a former captain, is present process therapy for most cancers.

"Heath has cancer and is undergoing treatment under one of the most respected oncologists in South Africa," his household mentioned in an announcement. "He remains in good spirits and will continue to fight this disease in a similar vein to that which his opponents faced during his revered days on the cricket field.

"The household hopes that you just perceive and respect their want for this to stay a personal household matter, and thanks on your prayers and good needs. There will probably be no additional official statements relating to his well being presently. Any news that turns into public needs to be considered hearsay."

Streak, now 49, was a major figure in Zimbabwe cricket through the best part of the 1990s and early 2000s, when they enjoyed their most successful run in international cricket. He represented Zimbabwe in 65 Tests and 189 ODIs between 1993 and 2005, finishing with 1990 runs and 216 wickets in Tests, and 2943 runs and 239 wickets in ODIs.

Streak is still the only Zimbabwe bowler with more than 100 Test wickets and over 200 ODI wickets. He captained Zimbabwe in the 2000s, during a difficult period when a number of players withdrew from the national side as relations between the board and team hit rock bottom.

After his profession as a participant ended, Streak took up teaching roles with numerous groups. He served as bowling coach of Bangladesh, Kolkata Knight Riders and Somerset, along with having a number of stints in Zimbabwe cricket.