By Evans Dakwa, News Editor
HARARE – Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) has terminated the national contract of veteran all-rounder Sean Williams after he made himself unavailable for selection and disclosed a struggle with drug addiction, the ZC board announced in a statement today.
The immediate catalyst for the decision was Williams’ withdrawal on the eve of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier 2025 in Harare. ZC stated the withdrawal came “amid potential anti-doping testing.”
According to the board, an internal investigation was launched to understand his repeated unavailability. During this process, Williams disclosed that he has been struggling with drug addiction and has voluntarily entered a rehabilitation facility.
While ZC commended Williams for seeking help, it stated that his actions were incompatible with the standards expected of a nationally contracted player.
“ZC expects all contracted players to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline and compliance with team protocols and anti-doping regulations,” the statement read. “Withdrawal from team commitments under circumstances involving potential testing raises serious concerns regarding professional and ethical standards.”
The board’s review found a “history of disciplinary issues and repeated unavailability, which has impacted team preparations and performance.” After what it described as “careful consideration,” ZC concluded that Williams “will no longer be considered for national selection” and that his national contract will not be renewed beyond its expiry date of 31 December 2025.
The announcement marks a stark end to Williams’ two-decade-long international career with Zimbabwe. The board took care to acknowledge his significant contributions, stating he “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 concluded its statement by wishing Williams “strength in his recovery and every success in his future endeavours.”
The 37-year-old leaves as one of Zimbabwe’s most capped and prolific players, but his international career now ends under the shadow of disciplinary breaches and a personal battle with addiction. Williams is not the first player to check himself into rehabilitation following in the footsteps
