Sean Williams is a reliable batsman and a more than useful left-arm spinner for Zimbabwe. He made everyone sit up and take notice when he was one of the stand-out players in the 2004 Under-19 World Cup by performing consistently with bat and ball. When the Zimbabwean players strike happened in 2004, Williams was widely expected to be given a call to the national side. His father, Colin Williams, however refused to send his son, suggesting that let him concentrate on studies.

He made his debut in 2005 when Zimbabwe toured South Africa, making only 12 in a losing cause. He was also selected and made captain of the Under-19 side for the World Cup, where he led his team to a surprise win over England. There were rumours that Williams had differences with the board and the rumours were confirmed soon as he rejected a central contract.