New Delhi: Former Zimbabwe fast bowler Henry Olonga was smashed by Sachin Tendulkar in the final of the 1998 triangular series. The series was played between India, Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka. Tendulkar scored 124 runs off 92 balls, taking Olonga to the cleaners. After 25 years, Olonga’s life has changed a lot. Olonga impressed the judges in ‘The Voice Australia’ singing competition in 2019. Now, he is a part-time painter for social causes and was present during the second Test match between Australia and India at the Adelaide Oval.
He last played for Zimbabwe in the 2003 ODI World Cup after that his stance on political atrocities in the country led to his departure from the team. During the World Cup, he and Andy Flower protested against long-term president Mugabe, wearing a black-arm band during the match. Flower has worked in cricket in many different roles but Olanga has stayed away from the sport. He moved to Australia in 2015 after spending more than a decade in England.
He talked about his career and said that he stood up for what he believed in and there are things that are more important than the game. He further added that he couldn’t stay in Zimbabwe under Mugabe’s rule and went overseas to start a new life.
“Look, I stood up for what I believed. It meant the end of my career, but I think there are things that are more important than the game. When I lived in a country with a man who slaughtered so many of his own people, I was like, ‘Nah, we’ve got to say something’. I couldn’t stay in Zimbabwe with Robert Mugabe not liking me anymore. So, I went overseas and started a new life. But no regrets, no” Olanga said as quoted by Hindustan Times.
‘Big fan of Siraj and Bumrah’: Henry Olanga
Olanga also talked about his current favorite bowlers and said that he is a big fan of Siraj and Bumrah. He further said that Bumrah reminds him of Wasim and if he’s at his best, Team India can defend low scores. Olanga also said that when he played, India was known for spinners but now they have a good number of pacers who can bowl over 140 kmph.
“I’m a fan of (Mohammed) Siraj and I’m a fan of (Jasprit) Bumrah. Bumrah is the best bowler. He reminds me of Wasim (Akram). Remember Wasim on a short run-up? And he’s (Bumrah) got perfect control. Beautiful shape, in, out. He can do what his mind thinks to do. If he’s on fire, India can always defend low scores” Olanga added.
Former Zimbabwe fast bowler Henry Olonga was seen painting during the Australia vs India second Test match at the Adelaide Oval. Cricket Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
