Zimbabwe's Brendan Taylor set for international comeback after serving ban
What's the story
Zimbabwe batter Brendan Taylor is all set to make his international comeback in the 2nd Test against New Zealand, scheduled to be played in Bulawayo from August 7. Taylor's return comes after a ban of three-plus years for breaching the ICC's anti-corruption code. Taylor, whose suspension ended on July 25, is likely to included in Zimbabwe's squad for the match against New Zealand. Here are further details.
Anticipation
Craig Ervine on Taylor's return
Zimbabwe's captain Craig Ervine has expressed his excitement over Taylor's return to the team. He said, "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, 10 [or] 12 months - in order for this to happen." Ervine is looking forward to what Taylor will bring back into the team and group.
Comeback story
No competitive cricket since September 2021
Now 39, Taylor hasn't played competitive cricket since his sudden retirement in September 2021. The terms of his ban prevented him from practicing with national or domestic teams. However, he has been using the facilities at a top independent school in Harare. Earlier this year, he told ESPNcricinfo that he is fitter than ever after going through rehabilitation for drug and alcohol abuse.
Strategic shift
Will Taylor be reinstated in the XI?
Zimbabwe had already announced a 16-member roster for the two Tests against New Zealand, including a strong batting line-up and first-choice wicketkeeper-batter Tafadzwa Tsiga. If reinstated at his usual No. 4 position, Taylor could push everyone down one spot to lengthen the batting order, as per ESPNcricinfo. However, this would require some adjustments from Zimbabwe to ensure enough bowling options are available.
Career highlights
A look at his Test career
Wicketkeeper-batter Taylor played 34 Tests for Zimbabwe between 2004 and 2021. As of now, he has scored 2,320 runs at an average of 36.25, with six tons and 12 half-centuries to his name. He also owns 6,684 runs from 205 ODIs at an average of 35.55 (11 hundreds and 39 half-centuries). It remains to be seen if Taylor will be considered for ODIs with an eye on the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup.