Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart has criticised Zimbabwe Cricket’s handling of national team veteran Sean Williams’ situation, describing it as harsh and lacking compassion following the board’s announcement that the player will no longer feature for the national side.

Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) confirmed that Williams, 39, would not play for the national team again after revealing his struggle with drug addiction and entering rehabilitation. The statement followed his sudden withdrawal from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier 2025.

In its official communication, ZC cited what it called “a history of disciplinary issues,” “repeated unavailability,” and “concerns over his withdrawal coinciding with potential drug testing.” The board also stated that Williams’ central contract would not be renewed beyond December 2025.

Mayor Coltart, who served as Minister of Education, Sport, Arts and Culture during the Government of National Unity, expressed disappointment over what he described as a lack of empathy in the way ZC handled the matter. He questioned the tone and timing of the statement, calling for accountability and transparency in the cricket body’s approach to player welfare.

“Sean Williams’ treatment by Zimbabwe Cricket feels more like a public purge than a professional resolution,” Coltart said. “The timing, tone, and framing of their statement raise serious questions about how such sensitive matters are managed.”

Coltart questioned why the board had maintained Williams’ contract if there were longstanding concerns about his conduct and suspected substance use. He also asked why the institution waited until his tournament withdrawal to act. “If Zimbabwe Cricket knew about disciplinary issues and suspected drug use, why was he still contracted until now? Why wait until a withdrawal to investigate his history?” Coltart said.

Observers have pointed out that Williams, who debuted for Zimbabwe in 2005 and captained the national team, has had a distinguished 20-year career. However, instead of acknowledging his contributions, the statement from ZC focused on alleged misconduct and ethical breaches without mentioning his achievements or leadership role in the team.

The language of the board’s statement using terms such as “drug addiction” and “disciplinary issues” has drawn criticism for reading more like an indictment than a farewell. Coltart said the lack of compassion shown to a player seeking help for addiction highlights a broader failure in how sports institutions handle mental health and rehabilitation.

“This isn’t just about a player’s personal crisis it’s about how an institution fulfills its duty of care,” he said. “We must foster a culture where players are supported through struggles, not publicly condemned.”

Williams’ case has ignited debate about whether Zimbabwe Cricket has sufficient mental health structures and support mechanisms for its players. Critics say the response appears reactive and punitive, rather than constructive.

As the discussion continues, the handling of Williams’ situation has become a test of how Zimbabwe Cricket balances professionalism with humanity an issue that extends beyond one player to the credibility and culture of the entire sporting institution.

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