‘Very much alive’, ‘great use of DRS’: Cricket legend’s ex-teammate announced his death – before awkward back flip

Be grateful you’re not former Zimbabwe paceman Henry Olonga today.

Olonga tweeted the death of his former teammate Heath Streak, 49, on Tuesday but had to correct his mistake hours later.

“Sad news coming through that Heath Streak has crossed to the other side. RIP Zimbabwe cricket legend,” Olonga said on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter.

“The greatest allrounder we produced. It was a pleasure playing with you.”

But Olonga was back on the platform later in the day to share an update from Streak.

I can confirm that rumours of the demise of Heath Streak have been greatly exaggerated. I just heard from him. The third umpire has called him back. He is very much alive folks. pic.twitter.com/LQs6bcjWSB

— Henry Olonga (@henryolonga) August 23, 2023

Streak has been undergoing treatment in South Africa after being diagnosed with colon and liver cancer.

Streak did get to experience a rare sensation – the ability to read multiple obituaries in press and social media – without having to experience the obvious downside.

There were better players for Zimbabwe than Heath Streak in the 90s. But he was the man who never stopped trying. His batting had a huge bump when he was made captain. It was like he constantly willed himself to be a success for his team.

Skill, desire, work ethic.

Vale.

— Jarrod Kimber (@ajarrodkimber) August 22, 2023

Heath Streak has to understand that it doesn't matter whether he is dead or alive, nor whether it was real news or fake, only that someone was first with it.

PS: I'm glad he's alive.

— Greg Baum (@GregBaum) August 23, 2023

Heath Streak. Great use of DRS. https://t.co/Tjgb6eXGcd

— Andrew Wu (@wutube) August 23, 2023

Heath Streak at 6:00 AM : Dead

Heath Streak at 10:00 AM : Alive

Review successful, Yamraj's decision overturned.#HeathStreak pic.twitter.com/RqbcXphfBG

— Roshan Rai (@RoshanKrRaii) August 23, 2023

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