11.   West Indian Brian Lara, for one, is convinced, calling him the best batsman in the world.

12.   Zimbabwe go into action on Friday against the West Indies without their best batsman.

13.   Rivalling Mark Waugh of Australia for the title of best batsman of the tournament.

14.   The best defensive batsman of his generation had finally been worn down by his dodgy back and the mental strain of playing in a weak side.