Sean Williams' Zimbabwe career ends abruptly after World Cup Qualifier withdrawal

Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) have announced that Sean Williams will no longer be considered for national selection after the senior allrounder withdrew from the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier 2025 on the eve of the tournament in Harare.

ZC also revealed that Williams has voluntarily entered rehabilitation. The 39-year-old made himself unavailable amid potential anti-doping testing and later disclosed during an internal investigation that he has been struggling with drug addiction.

"ZC expects all contracted players to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline and compliance with team protocols and anti-doping regulations," the board further said in a media release.

The statement added that a review of Williams' record revealed "a history of disciplinary issues and repeated unavailability, which has impacted team preparations and performance." While commending him for seeking help, ZC said his withdrawal under such circumstances "raises serious concerns regarding professional and ethical standards."

After "careful consideration," the board decided that Williams will not be in contention for future selection and that it would be "not feasible to continue his national contract beyond its expiry on 31 December 2025."

Despite the decision, ZC expressed gratitude for Williams' contributions over the past two decades, noting that he has "played a pivotal role in some of the most significant moments in our recent history, leaving a lasting legacy both on and off the field."

Click here to read article