ICC World Cup 2015: Brendan Taylor expects Zimbabwe to bloom in his absence

AUCKLAND: Stand-in captain Brendan Taylor is convinced Zimbabwe have more than enough depth in their side to cope when he steps away from international cricket and says he wants to finish on a "high note" with a win over India at the World Cup on Saturday.

The 29-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman is possibly playing his last game for his country after signing a three-year deal with Nottinghamshire as a `Kolpak player`, which prevents him from playing for Zimbabwe for the duration of the contract.

Taylor`s absence will leave a massive hole in Zimbabwe`s batting line-up and rob the side of invaluable experience.

"I think there`s enough depth there at the moment," Taylor told reporters in Auckland ahead of the Pool B match at Eden Park against India. 

"We`ve certainly got some experienced players, we`ve got some young and talented players coming through. I`m not too worried about maybe leaving a hole there ... I certainly don`t think that`s the case. 

"I think the players are definitely good enough to fulfil that number four spot in test cricket and one-dayers.

"I`m confident that there`s a bright future right around the corner for Zimbabwe cricket."

Taylor, who has stood in for the injured Elton Chigumbura for Zimbabwe`s final two games, said he would be sad to leave the national team after 11 years.

He had been a unifying figure as Zimbabwe slowly returned from isolation following long-running disputes between players and administrators.

His calm head has been vital on the field for Zimbabwe, while his brutal honesty in defeat at the World Cup, particularly after a five-run loss to Ireland, left his players in no doubt about their shortcomings.

That very public venting of frustration aside, Taylor had no regrets as he contemplates a future without international cricket after the clash with India.

"Every player`s dream is to represent their country, and I`ve been lucky enough to do that," he said. 

"We`ve had our challenges as young players coming into the side. We`ve had some tough losses, but we`ve slowly evolved and managed to sneak a few great ones in for us. Its been thoroughly enjoyable. 

"Sad for me that it`ll be ending, but I`m very proud to be a Zimbabwean, I`m very proud to represent my country on a great stage tomorrow to finish up and hopefully end on a high note."