Streak returns as Zimbabwe's bowling coach

Heath Streak has been appointed as Zimbabwe's bowling coach, ending a stand-off with the board which dates back to his removal as captain in April 2004, a move which triggered a player strike that threatened the international future of the game inside the country.

"We've been talking to Heath for some time and now that the modalities of his relationship with ZC have been concluded, we have every confidence that his presence in the changing rooms can only be good for the development of our national team," Ozias Bvute, Zimbabwe Cricket's chief executive, said. "A lot has been said and done in the past but the fact is that Heath has made an undisputable contribution to the game of cricket in Zimbabwe and is perhaps the finest bowler this country has had to date. We have collectively agreed to draw a line in the sand and allow for cricket to be the winner."

Streak, who has made no secret of his wish to see Zimbabwe regain their international reputation, said that it was a "great honour" to be back on board. "I am looking forward to being part of the vision to re-build Zimbabwe as a powerful cricket playing nation. I have amassed a wealth of knowledge during my international career and look forward to imparting this knowledge onto Zimbabwe's up and coming talent."

In addition to his duty of setting up the technical structures for the bowling side, Streak will also be seconded to the franchise squads to help them in their first full season.