Brendan Taylor has made a stirring return to international cricket, likening his comeback to “a debut-like feeling” ahead of Zimbabwe’s second Test match against New Zealand at Queens Sports Club.

The 38-year-old former captain is back in Zimbabwe’s Test XI after a three-and-a-half-year absence, during which he served a ban for breaching the ICC's anti-corruption code.

Taylor’s return marks not just a sporting milestone but also a deeply personal victory following a long and painful battle with drug and alcohol addiction.

“Three years ago, I struggled to even get out of bed,” Taylor said in a heartfelt interview to ESPN Cricinfo before play began.

“To be here again, doing what I love and representing Zimbabwe, is beyond special,” he added.

In 2021, Taylor abruptly announced his retirement from international cricket during a tour in Belfast. Months later, he revealed a harrowing experience involving coercion by match-fixers and a subsequent descent into substance abuse.

His decision to come clean and seek help led to a lengthy ban, during which he was barred from participating in any official cricket activity.

During this period, Taylor focused on personal recovery, even setting up a small coaching facility at home.

Initially preparing for a possible future in coaching, his plans shifted when Zimbabwe Cricket’s managing director, Givemore Makoni, encouraged him to return as a player—especially with the 2027 World Cup on the horizon.

Taylor admitted that the road to recovery was far from easy.

“There were many dark days filled with trauma,” he said. “It wasn’t just about dealing with the sanction; it was also confronting my own inner chaos,” he said.

A key turning point came when he checked into a rehabilitation centre in Zimbabwe’s Eastern Highlands. It was there that he began to rebuild his life, away from the limelight.

“There’s always that guilt of letting your family down. That’s the hardest part,” Taylor reflected, adding, “But the support I received from my loved ones was overwhelming. I only wish I had turned to them sooner.”

Taylor’s wife, Kelly-Anne, learned about his struggles along with the rest of the world.

Initially sceptical of his decision to go to rehab, she would later become one of his strongest pillars of support.

“My family, my friends, my team-mates, and the people at Zimbabwe Cricket have all played a vital role in my recovery. I owe this second chance to them,” he said.

Now back in the fold, Taylor has undergone a significant physical transformation—shedding nearly 20 kilograms and embracing a healthier lifestyle.

“I feel fitter than I’ve ever been. I’m living clean, and I’m living with purpose,” he said.

The moment he was handed his 36th Test cap was particularly emotional.

“It meant the world to me,” he said.

“I wasn’t expecting such a warm welcome, and it brought out a lot of emotions. It’s a moment I’ll carry with me forever,” he added.

With Zimbabwe currently struggling—on a six-match losing streak and facing persistent batting woes—Taylor was thrust into an unfamiliar role at the top of the order, moving away from his traditional No. 4 position.

He got off the mark with a fortuitous four, glancing a Jacob Duffy bouncer over the keeper's head.

While he won’t take up wicketkeeping duties in this match, Taylor remains optimistic and committed.

“Whether or not the performances come, there’s a bigger picture here for me. Just being back, representing my country, is a huge honour,” he said.

His comeback is not only a testament to personal resilience but also a much-needed boost for Zimbabwean cricket, both on and off the field.

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