By Salman Anjum /Cricbuzz

Former Zimbabwe skipper Heath Streak is critically ill as he is battling Stage 4 colon and liver cancer. The 49-year-old is currently admitted in a hospital in Johannesburg and his family is going there on priority from London.

Speaking to Cricbuzz, Zimbabwe all-rounder Sean Williams on Saturday (May 13) shared details on Streak’s illness.

"Heath has colon and liver cancer (Stage 4). All I know at this stage is Heath's immediate family was called to go to him in South Africa and I am not sure on any details thereof. I did message Heath and he did respond but I'm sure at this stage the family will want privacy. It sounds like the cancer is spreading pretty quick cause last week he was fishing," Williams stated.

"Heath is my mentor and did a lot of good things for a lot of people and basically saved my life and career. We just pray he will be ok," he added.

David Coltart, who is a former Zimbabwean Minister of Education, Sport, Arts & Culture, tweeted: "This is a call to prayer warriors in #Zimbabwe and beyond. Heath Streak, one of the greatest cricketers our nation has ever produced, is extremely ill and needs our prayers. Please could we all be in prayer for him and his family."

Meanwhile, Streak’s family has sought for some privacy. "Heath has cancer and is undergoing treatment under one of the most respected Oncologists in South Africa. He remains in good spirits and will continue to fight this disease in a similar vein to that which his opponents faced during his revered days on the cricket field.”

"The family hopes that you understand and respect their wish for this to remain a private family matter, and thank you for your prayers and good wishes.”

Widely regarded as one of the finest cricketers produced by Zimbabwe, Heath Streak represented his country in 65 Tests and 189 ODIs, picking up 216 and 239 wickets respectively. He was also a handy batter, scoring 1990 runs in Tests with one century and 2943 runs in the 50-over format of the game.