Streak hints at a possible return to Zimbabwe team

Heath Streak: might play for Zimbabwe again © Getty Images Enlarge

Heath Streak has indicated that he might play again for Zimbabwe if conditions in the country improve. According to a report in The Times, Streak was encouraged by the changes happening there, but cautioned that he would come back only if certain concrete measures were taken.

"There honestly is a chance that I can play again for Zimbabwe," Streak told the newspaper. "I think it can happen because we are in an environment where things are changing on a daily basis. It could be anything between a 1% or a 100% chance, it is impossible to say.

"The door being open and the issues being resolved are two different things. I hope some of the things mooted are not just on the surface, that there are genuine moves in Zimbabwe Cricket to rectify differences of the past and that there will be no vindictiveness or bad blood if we do return. It is difficult to know if they are being realistic.

"I think we need assurances on the selection side in terms of security because of integration and the manner in which integration is being handled. There is also an issue with the lack of accountability certain individuals have for their actions. That needs to be set straight."

The possibility of Streak's return drew an enthusiastic reaction from Ehsan Mani, the ICC president. "I have been encouraging Zimbabwe Cricket very strongly to talk to the rebels. They should try to offer the hand of friendship, unite and move forward. I think it would be wonderful if Heath could play for Zimbabwe again. Cricketers are not familiar with legal positions and sometimes I suspect they get used a little bit."

Ozias Bvute, the acting managing director of Zimbabwe Cricket, also indicated that the board would welcome his return. "I spoke to Streak two weeks ago," Bvute said. "Certainly the door is still open for him."

Streak last played for Zimbabwe in March 2003, in the home series against Bangladesh, and resigned as captain after differences with the selectors over the composition of the team. He is expected to turn up for the Nicky Oppenheimer XI in their match against the touring England team on December 8.