Former Zimbabwe captain Brendan Taylor created history on Saturday, October 17, by becoming his country’s highest-run scorer in One-Day International (ODIs), surpassing the long-standing record held by Andy Flower.
Batting at No. The 40-year-old wicketkeeper-batter achieved the milestone during Zimbabwe’s opening match of the ODI tri-series against Bangladesh in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. 4, Taylor scored 81 runs off 101 deliveries, including 10 boundaries, helping Zimbabwe recover from an early collapse and post 271/8 in 50 overs. Taylor has now scored 6,837 runs in 211 ODI matches, having made his international debut in the format in 2004. His record includes 11 centuries and 40 half-centuries, with a highest score of 145 not out.
Their partnership helped the team recover from the early setbacks and reach a competitive total. His return has added depth to the team, with the veteran continuing to contribute with the bat. Ervine led Zimbabwe’s scoring with 93 off 106 deliveries, including nine fours, while Taylor contributed 81 off 101 balls. Taylor reversed his retirement decision in 2025 to represent Zimbabwe again, bringing his experience back to the national side across formats.
The ongoing ODI tri-series features Zimbabwe, Bangladesh and Afghanistan. Zimbabwe are scheduled to face Afghanistan in their next match on Monday, October 19, at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. Earlier reporting noted: Brendan Taylor surpassed Andy Flower to become Zimbabwe’s highest run-scorer in One-Day Internationals (ODIs) after playing a crucial knock of 81 against Bangladesh in the opening match of the ODI tri-series in Abu Dhabi on Saturday. Taylor’s contribution, alongside Craig Ervine’s 93, helped Zimbabwe recover from an early collapse to post 271/8 before their bowlers bundled out Bangladesh for 172 in 33.4 overs, securing a 99-run victory. Earlier reporting noted: Taylor eventually departed for 81 after being dismissed by Saif Hassan, while Ervine continued to anchor the innings. The Zimbabwe captain narrowly missed out on a century, scoring 93 off 106 balls with nine boundaries before Shoriful Islam sent him back to the pavilion. Earlier reporting noted: The visitors were eventually bowled out for 172 in 33.4 overs, falling 99 runs short of the target. Zimbabwe’s disciplined bowling performance ensured a comprehensive victory in the tri-series opener, with Craig Ervine named Player of the Match for his 93-run knock.
