Flower and Olonga given MCC life membership

Andy Flower and Henry Olonga, the former Zimbabwe players, have been given honorary life membership of MCC.

Flower and Olonga famously wore black armbands in protest at what they called the "death of democracy" in Zimbabwe during the 2003 World Cup, after which they retired from international cricket. Their brave gesture has now been recognised by MCC.

"Both the membership committee and the main MCC committee were unanimous in wanting to honour Andy Flower and Henry Olonga," said Charles Fry, MCC's new president. "They sacrificed their international careers, earlier this year, to take a brave and principled stand against an appalling regime. We are delighted that they accepted our offers. In addition, we are thrilled that Andy and Henry are keen to play for MCC sides in the future."

Life membership is normally only given to players who have retired from first-class cricket, but MCC has made an exception with these two, and hopes that they can resume their international careers once the political situation in Zimbabwe improves.

Flower recently signed a new two-year deal with Essex, for whom he has been playing for the last two English seasons, while Olonga played for the Kent club side Lashings this summer.