Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
THE return of former captain, Brendan Taylor, was the only highlight as Zimbabwe struggled on day one of the second test against New Zealand at Queens Sports Club this Thursday.
Brendan Taylor played his first match since his ban three and half years ago after breaking the International Cricket Council’s anti-corruption code.
Over the years, Taylor fought lone battles trying to help the Chevrons, and it was the case once again this Thursday as Zimbabwe struggled on day one of the second test.
Taylor top scored for the hosts with 44 runs, hitting six boundaries along the way as Zimbabwe were dismissed for a paltry 125 runs in just two sessions.
During the three and half years in the wilderness, Taylor’s only focus was Zimbabwe Cricket.
“There were multiple days of trauma, the dark depths of the abyss and trying to just get through this total, incomprehensible demoralisation of life. The way my family rallied and supported me was amazing. Getting my life back on track is the reason why I am able to be here,” Taylor said.
Tafadzwa Tsiga was the only other batsman with a contribution worth mentioning after he had a cameo for 33 runs as Zimbabwe laboured to 125 all out.
New Zealand quickly made the hosts pay after breezing to 174 runs for the loss of one wicket, taking a 49-run lead going into the second day of the final test.
Zimbabwe trail the two match series one-nil.
