Brendan Taylor Set for Zimbabwe Comeback After Completing Ban

Former Zimbabwe captain Brendan Taylor is poised to make a remarkable return to international cricket, having been named in Zimbabwe’s squad for the second Test against New Zealand in Bulawayo, starting August 7. The recall comes after Taylor completed a three-and-a-half-year ban for breaching the ICC’s anti-corruption code, with his sanction ending on July 25.

Taylor, now 39, had not featured in any representative cricket since his abrupt retirement in September 2021. During his suspension, he was prohibited from training with national or domestic teams, but kept up his fitness and skills using facilities at an elite private school in Harare.

“I certainly did think it was all done, but here I am – and it’s an overwhelming feeling of gratitude,” Taylor told ESPNcricinfo. “The last year and a half has been dedicated to my return. I’ve put in an immense amount of work – fitness, technical side, diet – and I’m feeling leaner, fitter, and mentally stronger. That’s only been possible through sobriety.”

His return began quietly ahead of the ongoing first Test against New Zealand, where he was invited to train with the national squad. Zimbabwe captain Craig Ervine welcomed Taylor back, acknowledging the former skipper’s hard work and commitment.

“I know how hard he’s worked, especially over the last eight to twelve months,” Ervine said. “I’m very excited to have him come back into the space and looking forward to what he brings to the group.”

Taylor, who averages 36.25 in 34 Tests since his debut in 2004, has scored six centuries, including a memorable unbeaten 105 in Zimbabwe’s comeback Test against Bangladesh in 2011. He previously occupied the No. 4 position in the batting order, and his return could prompt a reshuffle that deepens Zimbabwe's batting line-up. The team will, however, need to balance this with maintaining sufficient bowling options.

Taylor’s road back has not only been physical but also deeply personal. After being sanctioned for failing to promptly report a fixing approach linked to an attempt to expose his cocaine use, he has undergone rehabilitation for substance abuse.

“I’ve been humbled properly,” Taylor said in a March interview. “I look forward to really just adding value, which I probably didn’t do to the best of my ability when I was there before.”

Zimbabwe have had a demanding Test calendar in 2025, with seven Tests already played and four more on the schedule, including two each against New Zealand and Afghanistan. While Taylor is not expected to feature in the T20 setup for now, he could be in contention for the ODI side as Zimbabwe looks ahead to the 2027 World Cup.

Taylor’s return marks both a personal redemption and a potentially valuable boost for Zimbabwean cricket during a challenging yet hopeful phase.

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