Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
Former Zimbabwe Cricket captain Brendan Taylor is eyeing a return to international cricket when his anti-corruption ban ends on July 25, driven by a sense of unfinished business and a burning desire to contribute once again.
Taylor (39), was banned for three-and -a-half years after he delayed reporting an approach by match-fixers, who blackmailed him with a video of him using cocaine. He later confessed to substance abuse and checked into rehab.
“I still want to play. I believe I can make an impact,” Taylor told ESPNCricinfo.
“Physically and mentally, I’m in a good place. Givemore (Makoni, Zimbabwe Cricket MD) encouraged me to focus on playing again instead of coaching.”
Makoni has backed Taylor to push for a place in the 2027 ODI World Cup squad, which Zimbabwe will co-host with South Africa and Namibia.
Taylor admitted he made mistakes, but has since turned his life around, spending 90 days in rehab and staying sober. He now trains independently at St John’s College in Harare.
“They have great facilities – grass nets and an indoor centre. I go twice a day, putting in the work. I’ve been batting, and now I’ll add keeping and fielding drills. I’ve got four months to go.”
He won’t be eligible for Zimbabwe’s historic Test against England in May, but is targeting the August home series against New Zealand and the T20 World Cup Africa qualifiers in September.
“I see myself playing Tests and ODIs. T20s – I’ll need to sharpen up. But I’m working on that,” Taylor said.
He also reflected on the missed opportunities in his previous career.
“I feel I didn’t offer enough. I’ve apologised and moved forward. Now I want to work with Zimbabwe Cricket and give my best again.”
If he succeeds, Taylor will join a veteran core including Craig Ervine (39), Sikandar Raza (38), and Sean Williams (38), as Zimbabwe aim to rewrite their World Cup story.
