Zimbabwe Cricketer Williams Fired Over Drug Addiction Allegations

Zimbabwe Cricket said the all-rounder has made himself unavailable for national selection and will not be selected again.

 The 39-year-old Williams has scored nearly 9,000 runs and taken over 150 wickets across all three formats of the game for his country.

 He withdrew from the T20 squad ahead of the World Cup Africa Qualifier series in Harare in September, and during an internal investigation into the reasons for his withdrawal, he "disclosed that he was struggling with drug addiction and voluntarily entered a rehabilitation program," Zimbabwe Cricket said.

 The governing body further stated, "After careful consideration, Zimbabwe Cricket has concluded that Williams will no longer be considered for national selection."

 Williams has not commented on Zimbabwe Cricket's statement.

 "ZC expects all contracted players to maintain the highest standards of professionalism, discipline, and compliance with team protocols and anti-doping rules," it added.

 "A review of Williams' record reveals a history of disciplinary problems and repeated unavailability, which has impacted the team's preparations and performance.

 "ZC commends him for seeking rehabilitation, but his withdrawal from team commitments in the face of potential testing raises serious concerns regarding professional and ethical standards."

 It added that it is "not possible" to continue his national contract, which expires on December 31.

 "Despite this, ZC sincerely acknowledges and appreciates his immense contribution to Zimbabwe cricket over the past two decades," it added.

 "Williams has played a key role in some of the most significant moments in our recent history, and has left a lasting legacy on and off the field."

 “ZC wishes him strength in his recovery and every success in his future endeavors.”