Former Test and ODI batsman says he had to look after his financial security after being paid $250 for World Cup campaign
Why I quit Zimbabwe for county: Taylor
Zimbabwe World Cup star Brendan Taylor has revealed concerns about his financial future were behind his retirement from international cricket.
Taylor reportedly earned around AUD $250 before tax for his World Cup efforts, the equivalent of 58 cents per run.
In contrast, established county cricketers could expect to earn between AUD $95,000 and $190,000 according to the Professional Cricketers' Association.
The 29-year-old's decision to focus solely on county club Nottinghamshire after a World Cup which saw him finish the fourth highest scorer with 433 runs at 72.16, including 138 off 110 balls against India, made headlines around the world.
"It is every international player's dream to put on their country's shirt, that is why we play the sport," Taylor told BBC Sport.
"But our careers do not last forever and I want to go and play in a great set-up, which Notts has provided for me.
"It was not an easy decision but I guess every player would be lying if they say they are not trying to maximise on potential earnings."
Image Id: ~/media/FB9F4C16F4F94C31A9629F7080975F4DBrendan Taylor celebrates a World Cup ton // Getty Images
Taylor’s deal with Nottinghamshire falls under the Kolpak ruling, which allows players from countries with Associate European Union (EU) Agreements to work in an EU country, but also makes him ineligible to represent Zimbabwe while that contract is in effect.
Money is an issue that plagues Zimbabwe and Taylor is not the first player to look overseas for financial security.
In 2013, talented young batsman Craig Ervine refused a central Zimbabwe Cricket contract in favour of playing club cricket with Northern Irish side Lisburn and Grade cricket for Morley in Western Australia, while fast bowler Kyle Jarvis retired at 24 to play for county side Lancashire.
"You are posed with difficult challenges and choices but it is a positive one that I have taken," Taylor said.
"It has been a special 11 years but I had to think about my family and my future.
"I am excited about being able to play a lot of cricket, playing in a very professional environment and with wonderful facilities."
About to board the plane to start my new chapter at @TrentBridge sad to leave home but happy to join a great side. Wish ZC all the best.
— Brendan Taylor (@BrendanTaylor86) April 3, 2015
Taylor said Zimbabwe’s poor tour of Bangladesh late last year, which saw them lose the Test series 3-0 and ODI series 5-0, was another factor behind his retirement.
"We were on tour in Bangladesh and I struggled, we all did as a team, and the enjoyment factor went out of the window a little bit," he said.
"That is when I thought this is end and I spoke to an agent and made sure I had a plan B in place.
"I just thought time is running out for me."
Image Id: ~/media/830055C13E1946E49E9D4FD5918C3EB2Brendan Taylor batting for Nottinghamshire // Getty Images
It seems Taylor has carried his brilliant World Cup form into the County Championship.
Earlier this week, he scored a century for Nottinghamshire in their season opener against Yorkshire.