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Former Zimbabwean fast bowler Henry Olonga has addressed his previous and incorrect announcement regarding the alleged death of his teammate Heath Streak. Olonga initially posted on social media about Streak’s passing, which garnered significant attention. However, he later clarified that the news was untrue and shared a chat screenshot with Streak to authenticate the correction. Nevertheless, by that time, the false news had already spread widely.
Streak himself contradicted the rumors of his demise and expressed his dismay over the misinformation circulating on social media, expressing that he was deeply upset by it. Subsequently, on Saturday (August 26), Olonga took to his Facebook account to issue a comprehensive apology.
Olonga acknowledges mistake and offers profound apology for misleading reports
In his apology, Olanga expressed profound remorse for disseminating misleading information and offered insights into his long-standing friendship with Streak, which dates back to 1984 when they were schoolmates.
Olonga revealed that he had been keeping track of Streak’s health status and explained that upon receiving the initial news, he attempted to verify it by reaching out to Streak and his family. Nonetheless, due to the late hour and a lack of immediate responses, a misunderstanding of the situation arose.
“I did immediately text Heath and Nadine to verify. It was a while before they could respond as it was late at night. I texted a few close cricket colleagues who know the family well, and they confirmed it was true. I did ask pointed questions to verify, but they were convinced,” Olonga wrote on Facebook.
“After all, I had only heard from Heath the day before so it seemed kind of sudden. But I truly was devastated as I genuinely believed he was gone. And all the emotion I felt I am sure those who encountered the story felt it too,” the former seamer added.
Olonga pleased with the abundant support and love for Streak
Olonga extended his regrets to everyone for accepting the incident as factual, which led to unwarranted distress. The Lusaka-born cricketer also expressed his happiness over the outpouring of support and love that Streak received from fans worldwide during the entire ordeal.
“Obviously, I am extremely sorry that I took it as gospel. I then placed my own tributes, which seemed to gather a lot of traction ( amongst many tributes out there) only to get a text from Heath a few hours later in which he asked me to reverse the decision. (He has always had a great sense of humour),” the 47-year-old said.
“I of course profusely apologised to the Streaks after the clanger. They did not need this. In any case, I hope you understand the context now and again appreciate your forgiveness for my part in this unfortunate affair. I am very sad about it. It was extremely heart warming to see how much love there is out there for our champion. Perhaps a silver lining,” Olonga concluded.
Here’s the post:
— Henry Olonga (@henryolonga) August 25, 2023
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