admin
“I just feel that my true calling now lies in doing the Lord’s work. Although I am fortunate and proud to have played for my country, the time has come for me to put my entire focus on that part of my life.”
Those were the immediate words of the 29-year-old Zimbabwe wicket-keeper batsman Tatenda Taibu, who made an early exit followed by a short career in international cricket. This week, we focus on the life of this international cricketer, who was loved by many around the cricketing world throughout his life.
Even in Sri Lanka, young Taibu was appreciated and respected by thousands of fans, including the national cricket team he played against.
“Personally, I love playing against the Sri Lankans, because they are a very tough bunch. And every time I play against a tough bunch, my game gets better. I am really looking forward to playing the likes of Muralitharan, Mendis, Malinga -they are top-class bowlers”, said Taibu in March 2011.
Making his return to Zimbabwe Cricket, Tatenda Taibu hopes to soon take up responsibilities as Zimbabwe Cricket’s convener of selectors and development officer.
Tatenda Taibu’s career as a cricketer
Born on the 14th of May 1983, Tatenda Taibu was a Zimbabwean cricketer who emerged as one of the most talented wicket-keeper batsmen in world cricket. Making his Test and One Day International debut in mid-2001, Taibu shortly became the youngest Test captain in the history of international cricket.
Making his debut at the age of 18, Taibu was 24 when he was announced as the skipper of the side. During his career, Taibu scored over 1,500 Test and 3,300 ODI runs in 28 and 150 matches respectively. In February 2008, Taibu was purchased by Kolkata Knight Riders of the Indian Premier League.
By then, Taibu was Zimbabwe’s most talented cricketer with plenty to achieve in years to come. He was easily Zimbabwe’s saviour.
Like many other Zimbabwean cricketers, Taibu had few controversial moments with the administration. Nevertheless, he returned to international cricket in 2011, scoring back-to-back half centuries in three Test matches.
Taking the entire cricketing world by surprise, Taibu announced his retirement in 2012, deciding to do work for the church. Zimbabwe cricket fell apart in his absence as their competitiveness decreased in the international stage.
His last appearance as a cricketer was on February 9, 2012 against New Zealand. In his short career, he finished as Zimbabwe’s fourth highest run scorer, with the second most number of dismissals as a wicketkeeper, behind the famous Andy Flower.
Taibu’s Church Life
As a couple of years passed, Taibu devoted himself to the church, taking up a completely different lifestyle in Zimbabwe. He had absolutely nothing to do with the career he left behind. He was so devoted to church life, he didn’t even intend to turn around at least for a day.
“I was not happy. My heart was looking for peace and I was trying to find it in this unreal world. That’s the time I started reading the Bible and all my doubts began clearing,” said Taibu.
“It’s hard to make them understand. Many of my teammates still misunderstand me. People living on the other side of the river will never understand where I’m at. I’m transformed now. These material things are immaterial to me. A day will come when the same people will look for peace and may God help me to guide them,” he added.
Taibu’s Return as Cricket administrator
With intentions of rebuilding Zimbabwe’s cricket culture, Tatenda Taibu has finally decided to make his return to international cricket as an administrator. Taibu has lately confirmed his willingness to become Zimbabwe Cricket’s convener of selectors and development officer from the following month.
“Most ICC limited-overs events are played under lights and our players don’t get any experience of that at home, so they are not used to it at all.
They need to be able to compete in those tournaments,” said Taibu.
Once he returns, he believes that he’d be able to address the current issues by showing a bit of love towards Zimbabwe Cricket. Taibu has also been working on his autobiography to reveal the exact reason behind his return to Zimbabwe Cricket.
“Everyone I have played with and the administrative people know me as a person who does not beat around the bush. Whether I am liked or disliked, people trust me,” concluded the 33-year-old. – Daily Sports
Online Reporter