Andy Flower

Andy Flower

Date of Birth: 28 April 1968, Cape Town, South Africa  Test Debut: Against India at Harare in 1992/93  ODI Debut: Against Sri Lanka at New Plymouth in 1991/92  Bats: Left Hand Bat  Other: Wicket-Keeper  Bowls: Right Arm Off Break

Today the name will obviously command more than quick attention. Even while the world's starry-eyed press have been showering praise on the Sachin Tendulkar, Steve Waugh and other superstars, almost unknown, Zimbabwe's lone fighter Andy Flower has emerged as the world's leading batsmen.

He has been performing bravely for a consistently losing side, Zimbabwe.

Andy Flower does not enjoy the luxury of Sourav Ganguly, Virender Sehwag and Rahul Dravid to soften up the bowling before striding up to do the demolition act.

Andy Flower bats at number five and six but there has hardly been anyone ahead of him to give Flower the luxury of facing up a softened bowling attack.

Andy Flower has been exceptionally brilliant as a batsman. Never in cricket's recent history has a batsman been so consistent and so lethal. Never has such a batsman also had to bear the responsibility of keeping wickets.

Against overwhelming odds, he has played some great innings for Zimbabwe. We should honour him.

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