HARARE — Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) has confirmed the return of veteran batsman Brendan Taylor to the national team, naming him in the squad for the second Test against New Zealand, scheduled to take place from 7–11 August at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.
Taylor, 39, re-joins the national setup following the completion of a three-and-a-half-year suspension imposed by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for breaches of its Anti-Corruption and Anti-Doping Codes.
His suspension ended earlier this year, and his return marks a significant milestone in what ZC officials have described as a story of redemption.
“Brendan has endured an incredibly difficult chapter in his life and shown genuine remorse, coupled with a powerful determination to make things right – not just for himself but for the good of the game in Zimbabwe,” said ZC Managing Director Givemore Makoni.
“He has worked tirelessly behind the scenes, remained disciplined throughout his rehabilitation and has now rightfully earned his place back in the national setup. We’re happy to see him in a good space again. His experience, skill and passion for the game will bring immense value to the team.”
Since accepting responsibility for his infractions in 2022, Taylor has undergone a structured rehabilitation programme, focused on personal accountability and recovery. He has been involved with training camps in recent months, including preparation sessions ahead of the ongoing first Test against New Zealand.
A pillar of Zimbabwean cricket for more than a decade, Taylor made his Test debut in 2004 and has gone on to feature in 34 matches in the longest format. He has six centuries and 12 fifties to his name in Tests, and with 9,938 runs across all international formats, he stands as Zimbabwe’s third-highest run-scorer. His tally of 17 international centuries remains a national record.
Prior to his suspension, Taylor was in strong red-ball form, scoring 92, 81 and 49 in his last three Test innings.
Reflecting on his comeback, Taylor spoke candidly about the personal journey behind his return.
“I certainly did think it was all done, but here I am – and it’s an overwhelming feeling of gratitude,” he said. “The last year and a half has certainly been dedicated to my return. I’ve put in an immense amount of work – from fitness to the technical side to diet – and I’m feeling a lot leaner, fitter and mentally stronger. That’s only been possible through sobriety.”
Visibly emotional, Taylor said he had embraced the opportunity to be back in the team environment.
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this journey on my own, just rebuilding the blocks, and I feel in a wonderful space,” he said.
The second Test against New Zealand will be Taylor’s first international appearance since early 2022. His selection is expected to bolster Zimbabwe’s batting lineup as the team continues its rebuilding phase under coach Dave Houghton.
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