Daily News
By Sakheleni Nxumalo
15 July 2013
BULAWAYO – Former Zimbabwe national cricket team captain and bowling coach Heath Streak will on July 31 launch the Heath Streak Consultancy and Sports Development initiative which is aimed at developing cricket in the country.
Addressing a press conference to announce the launch date last Saturday, Streak said his wish is to assist talented youngsters realise their dreams.
“For me this is just another opportunity to assist aspiring cricketers and I want to provide opportunities for youngsters to take their game to the highest level,†said Streak.
“We are in the process of setting up an academy in Bulawayo and we have since shortlisted two potential venues but our works will not be restricted to one place as we want to develop the sport in even the remotest parts of the country.â€
Present during the press conference were Streak’s agent Joseph Rego and Bulawayo businessman Raji Modi.
Rego, is the chief executive officer of the Heath Streak Consultancy and was also instrumental in the setting up of the India-based Heath Streak Foundation in 2012.
In his speech at the press conference, Rego said Streak’s initiative has the potential to benefit the country.
“My dream is to focus on sustaining this wonderful project and I shall ensure that the academy, which Heath is in the process of setting up, enjoys solid support not only from Zimbabwean companies but from India as well,†Rego said.
“This initiative will benefit the country immensely in identifying, promoting and supporting talent. It will help Zimbabwe regain past sporting glory.â€
The launch is set for the Holiday Inn and is bankrolled by Modi through his retail company, Bellevue Spar.
Modi was full of praise for Streak and pledged his continued support for the former national team skipper.
“Streak has a special place in his heart for young cricketers from an underprivileged background and I am happy to sponsor this wonderful initiative because I sincerely believe that sport and education are a basic human right for every child,†said Modi.
The minister of Sport David Coltart, will be the guest of honour at the launch which will also be graced by members of the Zimbabwe and India national teams.
Zimbabwe will host India at Queens Sports Club at the end of this month and an invite has been extended to the two teams to attend the launch which will include a fund raising dinner.