Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) confirmed Tuesday that Williams, one of the country’s most talented cricketers, will not have his contract renewed when it expires in December and will no longer be considered for national selection.
“During an internal investigation to understand his unavailability, Williams disclosed that he has been struggling with drug addiction and has voluntarily entered rehabilitation,” ZC said, commending him for taking responsibility but citing a history of disciplinary issues and unavailability.
The all-rounder, 39, has entered a drug rehabilitation programme, marking yet another high-profile brush with substance abuse to hit the nation’s elite circles.
The ZC move comes just months after fellow cricketer Brendan Taylor, who previously admitted to cocaine use, made a return to the national side following rehabilitation and a 3½-year ICC ban for corruption breaches.
Williams’ case adds to a growing list of public figures entangled in drug-related controversies. Socialite Robert Mugabe Jr and businessman Philip Chiyangwa's son of the same name, have both been mentioned in past incidents linked to drugs alongside peoole frm high densities and rural areas, highlighting how substance abuse is cutting across social classes — from celebrities to schoolchildren.
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Dominican Convent High School in Harare expelled learners after after they were caught with drugs on a school trip, exposing how the crisis has seeped into Zimbabwe’s most prestigious institutions.
Government has in recent months intensified its anti-drug drive through the National Drug and Substance Abuse Taskforce, resulting in numerous raids, arrests, and lengthy sentences for offenders. Yet despite these efforts, access to drugs such as crystal meth (“mutoriro”), cocaine and marijuana remains worryingly widespread.
Williams’ decision to seek help has reignited calls for a more holistic approach — one that combines law enforcement with rehabilitation and public education.
ZC, in its statement, acknowledged Williams’ two-decade contribution to Zimbabwean cricket, calling his legacy “immense” and wishing him strength in his recovery.
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