As the best batsman in Zimbabwe's history, Andy Flower often found himself fighting a lone battle against the finest bowlers in world cricket.

But he now contemplates an even tougher task after captain Kevin Pietersen and coach Peter Moores were both sacked.

The 40-year-old is believed to have been offered the chance to step up from his role as assistant coach to take charge of England's tour to the West Indies.

Although Flower is a former captain of his country, he has never before been the senior coach of a first-class team.

His deeds on and off the field suggest that he has the confidence not to be intimidated by such a huge challenge.

The decision, along with team-mate Henry Olonga, to wear black armbands for a game against Namibia at the 2003 World Cup won him recognition throughout world sport.

They were protesting against the regime of their country's dictator, Robert Mugabe, and what they called the "death of democracy".

Flower's performances in the Test arena were also hugely impressive. The wicketkeeper batsman managed to score 4,794 runs in 63 Tests for Zimbabwe at an average of 51.54 - a remarkable achievement in a struggling team.

Flower also played for Essex with distinction from 2002-06. His efforts with the county won him many admirers and he became Moores's right-hand man in May 2007.

Perhaps Flowers's association with Moores will count against him in the eyes of some players but winning their respect as an international sportsman will not be a problem.