Tatenda Taibu is one of Zimbabwe’s most iconic cricketers, remembered for his wicketkeeping skills, batting grit, and historic leadership. In 2004, at just 20 years old, he became the youngest Test captain in cricket history, a record that still stands. His career was defined by resilience, as he led Zimbabwe during one of its most turbulent cricketing eras.
Personal Profile
- Full Name: Tatenda Taibu
- Born: 14 May 1983, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Age: 42 years (as of 2026)
- Batting Style: Right‑handed
- Bowling Style: Right‑arm off‑break (occasional)
- Role: Wicketkeeper‑batter / Captain
- Domestic Teams: Mashonaland, Namibia, Mid West Rhinos, Kolkata Knight Riders (IPL), Namibia Select XI
Tatenda Taibu Statistics
| Format | Matches | Runs | Bat Avg | 100s/50s | Highest Score | Catches/Stumpings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tests | 28 | 1,546 | 30.3 | 1/12 | 153 | 72/5 |
| ODIs | 150 | 3,393 | 29.5 | 2/21 | 107* | 140/33 |
| T20Is | 17 | 404 | 26.9 | 0/2 | 62 | 12/4 |
| First‑Class | 87 | 4,000+ | ~35 | 6/20 | 200+ | 200+ dismissals |
Career Highlights
- International Debut: ODI debut vs West Indies (2001); Test debut vs West Indies (2001).
- Historic Captaincy: Became Zimbabwe’s youngest Test captain in 2004 at age 20.
- Batting Milestones: Scored a Test century (153 vs Bangladesh, 2005) and multiple ODI hundreds.
- Leadership: Captained Zimbabwe during political and cricketing turmoil, often standing up for players’ rights.
- Post‑Playing Career: Retired in 2012 to pursue religious and administrative roles, later serving as Zimbabwe Cricket’s convenor of selectors.
Style of Play
- Batting: Compact right‑hander, strong on cuts and drives, capable of building long innings.
- Wicketkeeping: Agile and reliable, often balancing dual responsibilities as captain and keeper.
- Temperament: Brave and outspoken, known for his leadership qualities at a very young age.
Legacy
Tatenda Taibu’s career is remembered not only for his cricketing achievements but also for his courage in leadership. His record as the youngest Test captain remains unmatched, and his contributions as a batter and wicketkeeper helped Zimbabwe stay competitive during difficult times. Beyond cricket, his decision to retire early and pursue faith and administration reflects his multifaceted legacy.
See More: Brendan Taylor