Olonga has arrived in England on a six-month work permit

Former Zimbabwe fast bowler Henry Olonga says he will not accept offers of political asylum despite receiving death threats after his protest against President Robert Mugabe's regime.

Olonga has arrived in England with a six-month work permit to play club cricket and do TV commentary during Zimbabwe's forthcoming tour.

He explained offers of asylum from Australia and New Zealand had no appeal.

"If there was a legitimate way for me to work then that is what I wanted to pursue."

Olonga made headlines during the World Cup when he and batsman Andy Flower wore black armbands to "mourn the death of democracy" in Zimbabwe under Mugabe's rule.

The 26-year-old received threatening e-mails during the tournament and went into hiding in South Africa.

I have some television commitments and a bit of a dodgy knee Henry Olonga

But there were reports that the Zimbabwe secret police were looking for him even in the Republic.

Olonga said he felt much safer in the UK.

"I believe that England is a bit further down the line with regards to being a free country and allowing people to express themselves," Olonga said.

"It's a lot more tolerant about people being outspoken and allowing people to speak their minds."

Olonga, the first black cricketer to play for his country, said he was not currently interested in pursuing a first-class contract.

But he is expected to turn out for Kent-based club side Lashings, who include several county sides on their fixture list.

Former West Indies captain Richie Richardson, Australian batsman Mark Waugh and New Zealanders Craig McMillan and Chris Harris will also join the all-star line-up.

"I have some television commitments and a bit of a dodgy knee, but once that all gets sorted I'm looking forward to playing for Lashings," Olonga added.