A WORLD test cricketer who had to flee Zimbabwe after publicly protesting about the Robert Mugabe regime, will travel to South Lakeland, next month.

Fast bowler Henry Olonga will appearing at the Cross Keys Hotel, Milnthorpe on October 18 to give a talk about his cricketing career and his life since he was forced from his homeland by the actions of the Zimbabwe Government.

Mr Olonga made his international debut for Zimbabwe in 1995, however, he received international recognition in 2003 when he and team mate Andy Flower wore a black armband during the Cricket World Cup in protest at the policies of the notorious Mugabe regime.

Following the incident, a warrant was issued for his arrest on a charge of treason – which carries the death penalty in Zimbabwe – and he was forced to retire from international cricket and temporarily into hiding. The event is being co-ordinated by St Peter’s Church in Heversham and one of the organisers Peter Taylor said he was looking forward to the hearing Mr Olonga speak.

“He had had a very interesting life and he will talk about his time as a cricketer, his Christian faith and also his new career as a singer and an artist,” said Mr Atkinson.

For details, call Peter and Mary Taylor on 015395-65832.