Zimbabwe Cricket has officially declared that veteran player Sean Williams will not be considered for national team selection again due to ongoing struggles with drug addiction. The 39-year-old, who recently withdrew from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier 2025, has also voluntarily entered a rehabilitation program.
Williams’ withdrawal came on the eve of the tournament in Harare amidst concerns over potential anti-doping testing. Following an investigation, he disclosed his battle with substance abuse. Zimbabwe Cricket emphasized its expectation of professionalism and discipline from all contracted players, particularly concerning team protocols and anti-doping regulations.
The board’s statement highlighted a pattern of disciplinary issues and repeated unavailability in Williams’ record, which had negatively impacted team preparations and performance. While acknowledging his decision to seek rehabilitation, Zimbabwe Cricket expressed serious concerns about professional and ethical standards raised by his withdrawal under such circumstances. Consequently, the decision has been made to cease national selection for Williams, and his contract will not be renewed upon its expiration on December 31, 2025.
Williams, who debuted in 2005, had a distinguished international career, representing Zimbabwe in 24 Tests, 164 ODIs, and 85 T20Is. He amassed 1946 Test runs, 5217 ODI runs, and 1805 T20I runs, scoring 14 centuries and 56 half-centuries across formats. His departure marks the end of a significant chapter for Zimbabwean cricket.