From Banned to Back: 3 Cricketers Who Stunned the World With Their Comebacks!
Cricket has seen its fair share of drama, and nothing shocks fans more than when a top player is banned. But what’s even more surprising is when these players return—stronger, sharper, and hungrier than ever. These comebacks don’t just make headlines—they rewrite legacies. With Zimbabwe’s Brendan Taylor set to make his return after a lengthy ban, here’s a look at three other cricketers who came back from the edge and proved they still had what it takes to compete on the biggest stage.
1. Mohammad Amir – The Teen Prodigy Turned Redemption Story
In 2010, Mohammad Amir was just 18 and already lighting up the cricket world with his pace and swing. But his meteoric rise came crashing down during Pakistan’s tour of England when he was found guilty of spot-fixing. A 10-year ban (with five suspended) and a short stint in jail seemed like the end. But Amir wasn’t done. In 2016, he made a sensational return to international cricket, playing a key role in Pakistan’s 2017 Champions Trophy win. His comeback silenced critics and proved that even the darkest chapters can be turned around.
2. Shakib Al Hasan – Bangladesh’s Comeback King
Shakib’s suspension in 2019 sent shockwaves across Bangladesh. The star all-rounder was banned for two years (with one suspended) after failing to report corrupt approaches from bookies. While he never actually threw a match, his silence cost him dearly. Fans feared his absence would leave a massive void, but Shakib returned in 2021 like he never left. In his comeback match against the West Indies, he delivered a match-winning performance. Since then, he’s been a cornerstone of the Bangladeshi side, cementing his legacy as one of their greatest ever.
3. Shane Warne – The Comeback That Saved a Legacy
In 2003, just before the Cricket World Cup, legendary Australian spinner Shane Warne tested positive for a banned substance—Moduretic, a diuretic often used to mask steroid use. He was handed a 12-month ban, ending his ODI career abruptly. But Warne wasn’t one to fade quietly. In 2004, he returned to Test cricket against Sri Lanka and quickly reclaimed his status as the king of spin. He retired in 2007 with 708 Test wickets, a number that still ranks second in the all-time list. His comeback wasn’t just successful—it was iconic.
Now, Brendan Taylor Eyes His Own Redemption
Once the pride of Zimbabwe, Brendan Taylor is now set to script his redemption arc. After serving a three-and-a-half-year ban for breaching both anti-corruption and anti-doping codes, Taylor is expected to take the field again in the second Test against New Zealand. If he does, he’ll join the ranks of these legendary comebacks—and prove that resilience can indeed beat regret.
Comebacks in cricket aren’t just about performance. They’re about character, grit, and the will to write a new ending. And fans? We love a good redemption story.
