End of an era as Sean Williams is fired by ZimCricket over drugs and unavailability

BY SPORTSCAST WRITER

HARARE – Ace Zimbabwe cricketer Sean Williams, one of the longest-serving players in world cricket, has been banned from playing for the country again after admitting to drug addiction and voluntarily withdrawing himself from the side.

The 39-year-old batsman and spin bowler removed himself from the Zimbabwe squad on the eve of the T20 World Cup qualification tournament in Harare in September, in hitherto unclear circumstances. He also missed the recent tour to Zimbabwe by Afghanistan.

It has since emerged that Williams had made the decision to withdraw in order to avoid a mandatory International Cricket Council (ICC) drug test, which would have exposed him to an international ban had he tested positive.

“Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) notes with regret that Sean Williams has made himself unavailable for national selection, most recently withdrawing on the eve of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier 2025 in Harare amid potential anti-doping testing,” said ZC in a statement on Tuesday.

“During an internal investigation to understand the reasons for his unavailability, Williams disclosed that he has been struggling with drug addiction and has voluntarily entered rehabilitation.

“ZC expects all contracted players to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline and compliance with team protocols and anti-doping regulations.

“A review of Williams’ record indicates a history of disciplinary issues and repeated unavailability, which has impacted team preparations and performance.”

Bulawayo-born Williams has therefore come to the end of his international career, an unceremonious exit from the stage he first introduced himself as a very promising teenager in 2005.

“While ZC commends him for seeking rehabilitation, withdrawal from team commitments under circumstances involving potential testing raises serious concerns regarding professional and ethical standards,” reads the statement.

“After careful consideration, ZC has concluded that Williams will no longer be considered for national selection.

“Consequently, it is not feasible to continue his national contract beyond its expiry on 31 December 2025.”

A firm fan favourite at home in Zimbabwe and abroad for his humility and charisma – Williams played 18 Tests, 162 ODIs and 81 T20s for his country in an international career spanning two decades.

“Notwithstanding this, ZC sincerely acknowledges and appreciates his immense contribution to Zimbabwean cricket over the past two decades,” commented ZC.

“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.”