![Brendan Taylor. [Source - ZimCricketv/x.com]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1753859826117_Brendan_Taylor.jpg?type=mq)
Brendan Taylor. [Source - ZimCricketv/x.com]
In a significant development for Zimbabwean cricket, former captain Brendan Taylor is set to return to international cricket after serving a three-and-a-half-year ban by ICC. The veteran last featured for Zimbabwe in September 2021, and now, nearly four years later, he will don national colours once again.
The former Zimbabwe captain has been officially added to Zimbabwe’s Test squad for the two-match Test series against New Zealand, starting Wednesday, July 1st. The 39-year-old has been training with the national team in Bulawayo over the past few days, gearing up for a return nearly four years after his last international appearance.
Craig Ervine Confirms Taylor’s Availability for Second Test Showdown
Zimbabwe captain Craig Ervine confirmed Taylor’s return for the Chevrons ahead of the first Test, as reported by Herald Online, and said he is “excited to have Brendan back” in the group. The former skipper is expected to be in contention for the second Test, which begins on August 7 in Bulawayo.
Taylor’s comeback follows the end of a 3.5-year ban imposed by the ICC for failing to report a corrupt approach and substance use in 2019. One of Zimbabwe’s finest-ever players, he has scored 9938 international runs and holds the Zimbabwe record for most international centuries (17).
If he features in the second Test, Taylor will become the earliest debutant among all active Test cricketers, having made his debut in 2004. With six Test centuries, joint second-most for Zimbabwe, his return adds experience. As Zimbabwe rebuilds with the 2027 ODI World Cup in sight, Taylor’s leadership could prove vital both on and off the field.
