Online Reporter
FORMER Zimbabwe skipper Tatenda Taibu has been there before, twice, and the memories still live close to the surface.
The ambassador for the upcoming ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup was part of two editions of the tournament, in 2000 and 2002, and it was in the latter that he announced himself to the world, finishing as Player of the Tournament.
That run laid the path for a senior career that would see Taibu earn 150 ODI caps for Zimbabwe and become the youngest Test captain in history at the age of 20.
Speaking on his own Under 19 journey, Taibu said, “As soon as I got the call, my mind raced back to when I was Under 19 myself and it feels nice to be a part of that again,” said Taibu.
“Being the player of the tournament will always stick in my mind for the rest of my life.
“I’ve been involved in two ICC Under 19 World Cups myself, in 2000 in Sri Lanka and in 2002 in New Zealand, where I was named Player of the Tournament.”
He also reflected on the weight that comes with representing one’s country at such a young age, while urging players not to lose sight of the simple joy of the game.
“There is a bit of pressure, you are playing for your country, and you want to do well. Everyone will be trying to use this as a trampoline to jump into professional cricket.
“However, they must not forget to enjoy the game. You play well when you enjoy cricket. When you put yourself under pressure, it might go a bit south.
“It’s the memories that we remember. Yes, the numbers will always be there, but it is the memories that go a long way.
“When I look back at my Under 19 time, it is the memories and the people that I hold onto.”
Taibu produced a set of standout performances in 2002, even though Zimbabwe failed to progress beyond the group stage.
The 42-year-old made his first class debut at 16 and his senior international debut at 18. He retired at 29 but remains deeply involved in the game as head coach of Papua New Guinea. Now based in the UK, he is especially eager to return home for the tournament.
“Being back home will feel good. I am looking forward to seeing how Zimbabwe cricket is doing and where it is from the grassroots all the way to the elite.
“I can’t wait to watch all the players from the different countries playing in Zimbabwe and experiencing the lovely warmth of Africa.”
He also spoke about the crowds expected when the tournament comes to his home nation.
“There is no doubt that there are going to be large crowds, especially in Harare. Bulawayo doesn’t have as big crowds, but sometimes they are actually the loudest.
“The love for the game has got better over the years in Zimbabwe.”
Zimbabwe are in Group C alongside England, Pakistan and Scotland.
The tournament gets underway on January 15, with 41 matches scheduled over 23 days. — icc-cricket.com
derick.khumalo