Heath Streak puts county before country

Heath Streak: his future is at Edgbaston © Getty Images Enlarge

Warwickshire have confirmed that Heath Streak has been appointed as their captain for the next two seasons, a move which means that he has possibly played his last game for Zimbabwe.

Streak, who has spent the last two summers at Edgbaston, was reported to have grown disenchanted with the constant in-fighting inside Zimbabwe cricket. Although he was been offered a new contract by Zimbabwe Cricket he did not sign it, and the offer from Warwickshire led to him quitting international cricket.

But he has not ruled out a return at some time. "I cannot rule out playing for Zimbabwe in the future, outside my Warwickshire contract which takes priority," he said. "I am not sure what the Zimbabwe Cricket plans are. I have not discussed anything with them, and I'm still willing to play club and provincial cricket."

Streak joined Warwickshire in 2004, and although his appearances were limited by international calls, he made a strong impression and his appointment will be welcomed by both players and spectators alike.

"I am honoured to be appointed as captain," Streak said. "The club has a proud history and I'm looking forward to working with the players, staff and supporters to bring more silverware in the future.

"I've enjoyed playing for Zimbabwe immensely but I have decided to retire from international cricket in order to fulfil my contractual commitments with Warwickshire. I hope that one day I can assist Zimbabwe cricket again in its efforts to develop."

Mark Greatbatch, the county's director of cricket, said: "Heath has had an outstanding international career and we are fortunate to secure his services as he has all the qualities that are vital in a club captain. All the players and management staff are looking forward to having him back next season."

Warwickshire have confirmed that Martin Saggers, who had been linked with a move from Kent, would not be joining them. But Min Patel, another Kent player out of contract, is in talks with Edgbaston officials.