This is the biography of Andy Flower, a former Zimbabwean cricketer and a revered figure in the cricketing world. His career spanned both playing and coaching roles, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
Early Life
Andrew “Andy” Flower OBE was born on April 28, 1968, in Cape Town, South Africa. He grew up in a cricket-loving family. His father, Bill Flower, was a renowned cricketer who played for Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). The Flower family’s roots were in Zimbabwe, and although Andy was born in Cape Town, they returned to Zimbabwe when he was young.
During his high school days at Oriel Boys’ High School and Vainona High School, Andy played most of his career alongside his younger brother, Grant Flower.
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Andy Flower Cricket Career
Flower made his international debut for Zimbabwe on February 23, 1992, in an ODI against Sri Lanka. As a wicket-keeper-batsman, he combined exceptional glovework with prolific run-scoring. His highest ODI score of 145, achieved against India in the 2002 ICC Champions Trophy, remains the highest by any Zimbabwean player in any tournament.
Andy Flower Biography [Image: News28]
From October to December 2001, Flower held the coveted title of the world’s top-ranked Test batsman. His elegant strokeplay and unwavering determination made him the lone Zimbabwean batsman of true test quality. His highest Test score—an unbeaten 232* against India—stands as a testament to his class and resilience.
After retiring from international cricket, Flower transitioned to coaching. He served as England’s head coach from 2009 to 2014, guiding the team to significant achievements. Under his guidance, England won the 2010 ICC World Twenty20.
Today, he continues to contribute to the game by coaching in various T20 leagues, including the Multan Sultans (Pakistan Super League), St Lucia Kings (Caribbean Premier League), and Royal Challengers Bangalore (Indian Premier League).
In June 2021, Andy Flower received a well-deserved honour—he was inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame, becoming the first Zimbabwean cricketer to achieve this distinction.
Andy Flower Biography [Image: Getty Images]
Andy Flower Personal Life
Flower met his wife, Rebecca, while playing cricket in England. Rebecca is English, and their connection blossomed amidst the cricketing world. The couple has three children together.
References
- Andy Flower – The Sports Grain
- That sort of competition is exactly what the Indian selectors are looking for – Andy Flower – Royal Challengers Bangalore
- Andy Flower – Cricket Player Zimbabwe – ESPNcricinfo
