Taibu quits Test cricket

Harare:

Zimbabwe captain Tatenda Taibu resigned Thursday from Test cricket after receiving threats to his safety. "Following phone threats, which forced me to stay in a hotel, I had another threat face-to-face by the same person,'' Taibu said. "I have reported both to the police, but with no result. It all contributed to my decision. "I have made this decision 80 per cent in protest against the present cricket situation caused by the hierarchy, and 20 per cent because I don't like the terms of my contract.'' Taibu, with the support of most of his national team and Zimbabwe's provincial chairmen, had called for Zimbabwe Cricket chairman Peter Chingoka and managing director Osias Bvute to stand down while ZC bank accounts were examined. The Zimbabwe Reserve Bank has since investigated the financial activities of Chingoka and Bvute. Taibu aims to play English club cricket next year - Zimbabwe's recently fired coach, Phil Simmons, is organizing the move - and will practice privately with family and friends in the meantime. Taibu made his Test debut four years ago at 18 against the West Indies at Harare. He was appointed captain at 20 after Heath Streak was fired in April 2004, which caused 14 other white contracted players to strike. He scored 1,273 runs at an average of 29.6 in his 24 Tests, and made 1,400 runs at 25.45 in one-day internationals. (AP)