Sporting and singing superstar to visit

He was an international Zimbabwean cricketer who became the hero of a nation, a voice for the oppressed, and he made it to the Battle Rounds on The Voice in 2019.

Henry Olonga is coming to Tasmania, and while it’s not all about cricket anymore, his varied and inspirational background is reaching a wide audience.
An Evening with Henry Olonga will be held at the Christ Church Anglican Church at 2 William Street, Longford on Sunday, February 9.

There he will be telling his story, covering his fascinating upbringing, his cricket career, politics and family – plus there will be some popular tunes for all to enjoy. Entry is by donation.

The 48-year-old who now lives in Adelaide with his wife and two teenage daughters, played both Test and One Day International cricket for Zimbabwe.

When he made his Test debut in January, 1995, he was the first black cricketer and the youngest person to play for Zimbabwe and he cemented his spot on the team between 1998 and 2003. 

Olonga featured in three World Cup tournaments in 1996, 1999 and 2003. During his playing days, he formed a rivalry against former Indian batsman Sachin Tendulkar whenever Zimbabwe and India played against each other in international cricket.

He was considered one of the fastest bowlers in international cricket, but also one of the more inaccurate, bowling many wides and no-balls. 

His international career came to an end in 2003 after he and teammate Andy Flower wore black armbands during an international cricket match in the 2003 Cricket World Cup to "mourn the death of democracy" in Zimbabwe.
Death threats forced him to live in exile in England.

Olonga announced his retirement from international cricket after Zimbabwe's final game in the 2003 World Cup at the age of 26 when he was in the prime years of his career.

He spent Australia umpiring a cricket match between to local sides where the first batting side was bowled out for 27. And he loved it.
“These days I do a bit of umpiring, I coach young kids for the South Australian Cricket Association, and I do some commentating in the Sheffield Shield,” he said.

“I can’t want to get to Tasmania and catch up with my wife’s cousins, who are in Hobart, and meet the Northern Midlands community, as well as take a week to tour around and hopefully get some fishing done.

“I really want to catch some Tassie fish and in particular, your lobster!”