ZIMBABWE’S first black cricketer, who put his life and career on the line in a stand against dictator Robert Mugabe, has been inspiring audiences in Bournemouth.

Henry Olonga and teammate Andy Flower famously protested against Mugabe’s tyranny by wearing a black armband – a nod to the death of democracy – on the cricket field ahead of the 2003 World Cup.

Olonga, a Christian since the age of 16, received death threats and had to go into hiding. He has not been back to Zimbabwe and, since his passport expired in 2006, has been unable to travel outside the UK.

West Cliff Baptist Church was packed out for two services he attended on Sunday.

Pastor Chris Brockway said the congregation had eagerly awaited Olonga’s visit since he accepted their invitation a year ago.

Mr Brockway said: “Henry was absolutely brilliant.

“People brought friends and families along which was good, and in the evening we staged a Parkinson-style ‘An Audience With’ evening at The Westbourne Pub.

“He sings really, really well.”

At the pub they focused on Olonga’s sporting achievements, whereas the morning had been about faith.

Olonga is now in his 30s and living in London. Flower is England cricket coach.

Mr Brockway added: “Henry spoke about the fusion between politics and sport and faith. All his political actions were motivated by his faith.

“We learned how his sense of moral conviction led him to do what he did.”