Rebels sign off and head abroad

A statement issued by 13 of Zimbabwe's rebel cricketers in Harare today might not signal the end of the dispute with the Zimbabwe Cricket Union, but it contains enough hints to suggest that the majority - if not all - of them have had enough.

Some of the players have already left to play overseas, and others are about to do so. Many know that they are unlikely to return, at least in the near future, when they face possible persecution from the ruling Zanu-PF government.

The statement, printed in today's Daily Telegraph, says: "Two months ago we decided to withdraw our services from the Zimbabwe Cricket Union. Our action was in solidarity with our national captain, Heath Streak, who was unlawfully dismissed, as well as in protest at the unfair and discriminatory employment practices perpetrated against us by individuals of the Zimbabwe Cricket Union.

"It was our hope that meaningful dialogue and negotiation would address our problems with the Zimbabwe Cricket Union ... to achieve our goal to safeguard the future of Zimbabwe cricket.

"Our actions have never been racially or politically motivated. In fact, through our years of service and dedication we feel we have been an example of a successful and multiracial team. Despite some perceptions, we have proven time and time again that Zimbabweans of all colours can work together and achieve excellence, as shown in our last two World Cups.

"As patriotic citizens of the country we love, we still hope a solution will be achieved and that we can soon return to playing for Zimbabwe. We would also like to wish the current Zimbabwe cricket team the best of luck for the future. We will continue to support the players in every possible way."

Streak leaves Harare this afternoon to join Warwickshire, and Grant Flower and Trevor Gripper are already in England: Gripper will be playing club cricket for Cranleigh in Surrey this weekend. Andy Blignaut was yesterday signed by Tasmania, and Sean Ervine has already settled in Perth. The remainder are expected to follow shortly.

Sources close to the players say that they have no confidence that the ZCU has any intention of trying to resolve the matter, and that is why they have issued the statement.