Veteran batter Brendan Taylor has been added to Zimbabwe squad for the second test against New Zealand, who will be returned to international action after three and half year suspension imposed by the International Cricket Council for breaching their Anti-corruption and Anti-Doping Codes.
He was sanctioned in January 2022 after accepting 15,000 USD from Indian businessman during a trip to Delhi in 2019.
The bribe was part of discussions to launch a private T20 league in Zimbabwe, came with promises of a further USD 20,000.
The World Sports governing body revealed that Taylor delayed reporting the approach and also failed a drug test for cocaine use upon returning home.
Taylor was given a Samsung S10 phone, money for shopping among other ‘various things for his entertainment.”
A few days before the ICC had made its decision public, Taylor had taken to social media to share his side of the story saying, “I may be many things but I am not a cheat.”
After taking extensive rehabilitation programme, Taylor has been reintegrated into Zimbabwe’s national setup. He began training with the squad ahead of first test against New Zealand.
The ZC managing director, Givemore Makoni said, “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.”
“He has worked tirelessly behind the scenes, remained disciplined throughout his rehabilitation and has now rightfully earned his place back in the national setup. We’re happy to see him in a good space again. His experience, skill and passion for the game will bring immense value to the team.”
On his inclusion in the squad for the second test of the New Zealand tour of Zimbabwe 2025, Brendan Taylor expressed gratitude on his addition to his squad.
“I certainly did think it was all done, but here I am – and it’s an overwhelming feeling of gratitude,” he said. “I have to pinch myself a little to realise that I’m actually here. I’ve been soaking it all up and embracing every moment. It’s just been a really nice integration.
“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.
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this journey on my own, just rebuilding the blocks, and I feel in a wonderful space.”
Brendan Taylor has remained one of the Zimbabwe’s established accomplished cricketers, having scored 9,938 international runs across formats, the third-highest tally for the country and holds the record for the most international centuries by Zimbabwean.
In his test career, he has struck six centuries and 12 half centuries, including scores of 92, 81 and 49 in his final three Test innings before the ban.
The second test of the series will be played between August 07 and 11 at Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo.
