Brendan Taylor set for Test comeback after serving ban
Brendan Taylor
Former Zimbabwe captain Brendan Taylor is poised to make his return to international cricket in the second Test against New Zealand, beginning August 7 in Bulawayo, after completing a three-and-a-half-year ban for breaching the ICC's anti-corruption code. His suspension officially ended on July 25.
Although Zimbabwe had already named a 16-member squad for the series, Taylor is expected to be added for the second Test.
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Zimbabwe skipper Craig Ervine expressed his excitement about Taylor's return, highlighting the veteran's commitment and effort to stay prepared despite being away from competitive cricket for nearly four years.
"He'll obviously be available for the second Test. But I also know how hard he's worked in his individual capacity - especially over the last eight, ten [or] 12 months - in order for this to happen. I'm very excited to have him come back into the space in the next few days, and looking forward to what he has to contribute towards the team and the group." Zimbabwe captain Craig Ervine said of Taylor's return to the side.
Now 39 years old, Taylor has not featured in any representative cricket since his unexpected retirement in September 2021. Due to the terms of his ban, he was barred from training with national or domestic teams but has been using private facilities at a top-tier school in Harare to maintain his fitness.
Taylor’s likely inclusion could see him slot back into his familiar No. 4 position, potentially pushing the middle order down and strengthening the batting line-up. However, Zimbabwe will need to strike a balance to ensure they still have enough bowling resources.
Taylor has an impressive record in Tests, with 34 matches, six centuries, and an average of 36.25. One of his career highlights includes an unbeaten 105 in Zimbabwe’s comeback Test against Bangladesh in 2011, following a six-year absence from the format.
His return comes during a packed schedule for Zimbabwe, who have already played seven Tests this year, winning just one. They are scheduled for four more Tests—two each against New Zealand and Afghanistan—surrounding the T20 World Cup Qualifiers in September. While Taylor is not currently in Zimbabwe’s T20 plans, he could return to ODI cricket, especially with an eye on the 2027 World Cup.
