Fletcher, who captained Zimbabwe during the 1983 World Cup and played just six one-dayers during the African nation's pre-Test days, had mixed results as England coach. The high points of his career were England's Ashes triumph over Australia in the home series of 2005, England's first series win in West Indies in 36 years and the team earning the third spot in Test rankings. Fletcher was the first foreigner to coach England's cricket team. Known to be a task-master, he guided England to eight straight Test wins. The biggest moment came in 2005 when England bested a star-studded Australian team to win the Ashes for the first time since 1987. The Zimbabwean was honoured by Britain's Royalty with an OBE. But later, England's form slid and his performance came under the scanner. England managed to draw series in India and Pakistan but the 0-5 whitewash in the 2006-07 Ashes series in Australia led to widespread criticism of Fletcher, who refused to step down at that stage. England's early exit from the 2007 World Cup forced him to quit. Fletcher, whose name was reportedly suggested to the BCCI by Kirsten himself, has a tough job on hands as the amiable South African has set a high benchmark and finished the stint with the World Cup win. With Kirsten at the helm, India reached the top of Test rankings and number two in the ODIs. He gave up the job to spend more time with his family.
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