Brendan Taylor Returns to Zimbabwe Squad for Second Test Against New Zealand

By Andile Vundla

Zimbabwe Cricket has announced the return of veteran batsman Brendan Taylor to the national squad for the second Test against New Zealand. The match will be played from 7 to 11 August at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo.

Taylor rejoins the team after completing a three-and-a-half-year suspension handed down by the International Cricket Council for breaches of anti-corruption and anti-doping codes.

ZC Managing Director Givemore Makoni described Taylor’s return as a story of redemption. He said Taylor had shown deep remorse and worked hard during rehabilitation, adding that his experience will bring great value to the national side.

Taylor, one of Zimbabwe’s most decorated players, has scored nearly 10,000 runs across formats and holds the national record for most international centuries, 17 in total.

Ahead of the ongoing first Test, he had already been training with the squad as part of his reintegration.

Speaking to reporters, a visibly emotional Taylor said he was grateful for the second chance and feels mentally and physically ready.

The 34-Test veteran is expected to add stability and experience to Zimbabwe’s batting lineup as they have struggled to cope with the strong New Zealand side.