Online Reporter
Bongani Ndlovu, Online Reporter
ZIMBABWE Cricket (ZC) has confirmed the return of veteran batsman Brendan Taylor to the national squad ahead of the second Test against New Zealand, set for 7 to 11 August 2025 at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.
Taylor, who last featured for the Chevrons in 2021, returns after serving a three-and-a-half-year suspension imposed by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for breaching both the Anti-Corruption and Anti-Doping Codes.
ZC Managing Director Givemore Makoni described Taylor’s comeback as a story of redemption and inspiration.
“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,” Makoni said.
“He has worked tirelessly behind the scenes, remained disciplined throughout his rehabilitation and has now rightfully earned his place back in the national setup.”
Taylor, who has played 34 Test matches since his debut in 2004, is Zimbabwe’s third-highest run-scorer with 9 938 international runs and holds the national record for most international centuries with 17.
Before his suspension, he had been in fine form in the Test arena, registering scores of 92, 81 and 49 in his last three innings.
He began reintegrating with the squad ahead of the ongoing first Test against New Zealand, where he was invited to train with the team.
Reflecting on his return, Taylor, who appeared visibly emotional, expressed deep gratitude for the support he received from ZC, his team-mates and technical staff.
“I certainly did think it was all done, but here I am – and it’s an overwhelming feeling of gratitude,” said Taylor.
“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.”
The second Test will mark a significant chapter in Taylor’s career as he seeks to contribute both experience and quality to Zimbabwe’s rebuilding efforts.
