Former Zimbabwe pacer Henry Olonga, who last played an international match in 2003, has embraced a variety of careers since his cricketing days. From a celebrated musician and author to an activist and now a painter, Olonga continues to reinvent himself in creative and surprising ways. Recently, the former cricketer added another unique role to his repertoire: hourly-based painter. During the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 at Adelaide Oval, Henry Olonga was spotted painting as part of his new hobby.
A video shared on his ‘X’ handle (formerly Twitter) showcased the former pacer engaging in this artistic endeavour. The video, which quickly went viral, gave fans a glimpse of his post-cricket life. Henry Olonga expressed his passion for exploring new avenues and seemed thoroughly immersed in his latest pursuit. After leaving Zimbabwe, Olonga spent over a decade in England before settling in Australia in 2015. His versatility is evident in his wide-ranging pursuits, from singing and painting to coaching and umpiring.
On weekends, he officiates local cricket matches, where players often recognize him as a former international star. His singing talent was widely appreciated when he appeared on The Voice Australia in 2019, performing Anthony Warlow’s This Is the Moment. Olonga’s cricketing career is remembered not just for his on-field performances but also for his courage off the field. He debuted in 1995, captivating fans with his dreadlocks and exuberant celebrations.
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One of his most notable moments came in the 1998 Coca-Cola Cup in Sharjah, where he dismissed Sachin Tendulkar cheaply in a group match, only for Tendulkar to avenge the dismissal with a masterful unbeaten 124 in the final. However, Olonga’s career was cut short during the 2003 World Cup when he and teammate Andy Flower protested against Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe by wearing black armbands, symbolizing “the death of democracy.”
At the India vs Aus test in the Village to memorialise the Adelaide pink test in a painting. It’s gonna be rockin here pic.twitter.com/5ObyU2d7wt
— Henry Olonga (@henryolonga) December 6, 2024
Now settled in Australia, Olonga has found peace and belonging. Married to an Australian and a father of two, he cherishes his multicultural background, which includes Zambian roots and a Kenyan father. Reflecting on his cricketing days, he admitted feeling like an outsider but has since embraced his diverse identity.
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During the Adelaide Test, Henry Olonga also shared his admiration for India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, comparing him to the legendary Wasim Akram. “Bumrah is the best bowler, with his hyper-extension giving him an edge. He reminds me of Wasim with his short run-up,” Olonga remarked, drawing parallels between two exceptional bowlers of their eras.
Henry Olonga’s journey is a testament to resilience, creativity, and an enduring passion for self-expression, whether on the field, stage, or canvas
